CAQM Enforces Stage 1 of GRAP as Delhi-NCR Air Quality Deteriorates

 

CAQM Enforces Stage 1 of GRAP as Delhi-NCR Air Quality Deteriorates

 

Delhi-NCR Air Quality Triggers First Stage of Emergency Response

Amid rising pollution levels and poor air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the Delhi-NCR region. This decision follows sustained air quality readings in the “poor” category, necessitating immediate mitigation efforts.

Key Measures Under GRAP Stage 1

The activated measures are preventive and regulatory, aiming to control dust, manage waste, and curb vehicular and industrial emissions. The following actions are mandated:

• Regular removal of waste: Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste, and hazardous waste must be promptly lifted from dump sites. No illegal dumping will be tolerated.
• Enforced anti-smog compliance: C&D sites must adhere to statutory rules, including the use of anti-smog guns in proportion to project size.
• Road work regulations: Road construction and maintenance must intensify water sprinkling, dust suppression, and smog mitigation.
• Landfill monitoring: Authorities will ensure that no fires or burning occur at landfill sites or dump yards.
• Vehicle emissions checks: The PUC norms for vehicles will be strictly enforced across NCR.
• Truck traffic rerouting: Trucks not destined for Delhi will be diverted via Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways, as per Supreme Court directives.
• Industrial monitoring: Illegal and non-compliant industrial units will face strict legal and penal actions.
• Power stability: DISCOMs must work to minimize power interruptions in NCR areas to reduce generator use.

CAQM Urges Cooperation

The Commission has urged all concerned departments and enforcement agencies to act swiftly and decisively to implement these measures. Citizens are also requested to support efforts by limiting vehicle use, avoiding burning waste, and reporting violations.

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