Delhi Pollution Curbs Eased To GRAP 2: What’s Allowed, What’s Not

Delhi Air Quality: Delhi’s air pollution levels showed a declining trend and the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) stood at 324 at 7 pm on Friday.

New Delhi:

As Delhi gets respite from toxic air with improved air quality due to continuous rains, Centre’s panel on Delhi-NCR’s air quality on Friday lifted stringent pollution curbs under stage 3 of GRAP in the national capital and surrounding areas with immediate effect. However, pollution restrictions under stage 2 of GRAP are in place in the national capital region.

Delhi’s air pollution levels showed a declining trend and the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) stood at 324 at 7 pm on Friday.

According to forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the air quality situation is predicted to improve further owing to favourable meteorological conditions.

The Commission for Air Quality Management, responsible for strategizing air pollution mitigation in Delhi-NCR, said curbs prescribed under stage 1 and 2 will remain in force in the region

So, what does it mean?

Under stage 2 of GRAP, measures such as mechanised sweeping of roads, use of anti-smog guns, and sprinkling water daily will be taken to tackle dust with focused attention on identified air pollution hotspots.

Power suppliers need to ensure uninterrupted supply so that the use of diesel generator sets can be minimised.

Alerts will be issued through newspapers, television, and radio to advise people about air pollution levels.

Further, to ensure that the air quality index in Delhi NCR doesn’t slip into ‘very poor’ or ‘severe’ category again, people are advised to use public transport and ditch personal vehicles whenever possible.

People are also requested to take a less congested route to their destination even if it is slightly longer along with regularly replacing air filters in their automobiles at recommended intervals.

What’s not allowed

Ban on the use of coal and firewood will still be in place in Delhi NCR, including the use of tandoors at restaurants and hotels.

Use of diesel generators sets will also not be allowed except for emergency and essential services under GRAP 2.

What’s Allowed Under GRAP 2?

Under Stage 2, several restrictions from Stage 3 have been lifted or eased. Here’s what’s allowed:

1. Industries and Construction:Non-polluting industries and manufacturing units can operate normally.Construction and demolition activities related to government projects, such as railways, metros, airports, and national security, are permitted.

2. Transportation:Entry of trucks carrying essential goods is allowed.Diesel generator (DG) sets can be used for essential services such as hospitals and telecom towers.

3. Public Spaces :Schools, colleges, and other educational institutions remain open.Outdoor activities, including recreational sports and markets, can continue without additional restrictions.

4. Residential and Commercial Usage :Use of clean fuels like CNG, LPG, and electricity is encouraged, but there are no specific restrictions on domestic or commercial fuel usage.