Delhi's Air Quality Worsens, GRAP IV Measures Reimplemented
Delhi's air quality deteriorates, prompting the return of GRAP IV restrictions.
Photo by Ronak Naik
Quick Revision
Delhi AQI nearing 'severe' range
GRAP IV measures reimplemented
Anand Vihar AQI: 414
RK Puram AQI: 393
Punjabi Bagh AQI: 406
Key Numbers
Visual Insights
Delhi Air Quality: AQI Levels in Key Locations
Map showing the Air Quality Index (AQI) in different locations across Delhi, highlighting areas with 'Severe' air quality based on the latest data.
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Exam Angles
GS Paper 3: Environment and Ecology, Pollution
Links to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being)
Potential questions on environmental governance, policy implementation, and inter-state cooperation
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Summary
Delhi's air quality has deteriorated, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) nearing the 'severe' category. As a result, authorities have reimplemented Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The AQI values recorded today are: Anand Vihar (414), RK Puram (393), and Punjabi Bagh (406).
GRAP IV includes measures such as a ban on construction and demolition activities, restrictions on vehicular traffic, and closure of schools if the air quality worsens further. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) will monitor the situation and decide on further actions.
Background
The issue of air pollution in Delhi is not new, with its roots tracing back to rapid industrialization, urbanization, and agricultural practices in the post-independence era. The problem gained significant attention in the 1990s, leading to the introduction of measures like the phasing out of older vehicles and the promotion of CNG. The Supreme Court's intervention in the early 2000s played a crucial role in pushing for cleaner fuels.
However, the problem persisted due to factors like regional stubble burning, construction activities, and vehicular emissions. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was formulated in 2016 as a structured approach to combat air pollution based on AQI levels, drawing from experiences and studies conducted over the preceding decades.
Latest Developments
In recent years, there has been increased focus on addressing the regional nature of air pollution, with greater emphasis on collaboration between Delhi and neighboring states. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) was established in 2021 to coordinate efforts across the National Capital Region (NCR). Initiatives like the promotion of electric vehicles, stricter enforcement of emission norms, and efforts to reduce stubble burning through alternative technologies have gained momentum.
The future outlook involves further strengthening regional cooperation, investing in cleaner technologies, and enhancing public awareness to promote sustainable practices. The effectiveness of GRAP and CAQM will be crucial in achieving long-term improvements in air quality.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): 1. GRAP is implemented solely by the Delhi government. 2. GRAP is a set of emergency measures to reduce air pollution based on AQI levels. 3. GRAP includes measures such as banning construction activities and restricting vehicular traffic. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is incorrect as GRAP is implemented by multiple agencies under the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). Statements 2 and 3 are correct.
2. Which of the following best describes the role of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)?
- A.To provide financial assistance to industries for adopting cleaner technologies.
- B.To coordinate efforts between Delhi and neighboring states to combat air pollution.
- C.To conduct research on the health impacts of air pollution.
- D.To enforce traffic regulations in Delhi.
Show Answer
Answer: B
The CAQM's primary role is to coordinate efforts between Delhi and neighboring states to address air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR).
3. Assertion (A): Re-implementation of GRAP IV in Delhi indicates a severe air quality crisis. Reason (R): GRAP IV measures are invoked when the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches the 'severe+' category, posing significant health risks. In the context of the above statements, which of the following is correct?
- A.Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
- B.Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
- C.A is true but R is false.
- D.A is false but R is true.
Show Answer
Answer: A
Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains why the re-implementation of GRAP IV indicates a severe air quality crisis.