Summary
Delhi has failed to meet the targets set under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) for PM10 levels, lagging behind Noida in achieving air quality improvements. According to data released today, Delhi's air quality remains a significant concern, with PM10 levels exceeding the permissible limits. In contrast, Noida has shown progress in reducing PM10 concentrations, although it still faces challenges. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has flagged deficiencies in the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) measures in the National Capital Region (NCR).
Full Analysis
Delhi has failed to meet the targets set under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) for PM10 levels, lagging behind Noida in achieving air quality improvements. According to data released today, Delhi's air quality remains a significant concern, with PM10 levels exceeding the permissible limits. In contrast, Noida has shown progress in reducing PM10 concentrations, although it still faces challenges. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has flagged deficiencies in the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) measures in the National Capital Region (NCR).
Background Context
The issue of air pollution in Delhi and the NCR region has a long history, dating back to the rapid industrialization and urbanization that began in the late 20th century. The increasing number of vehicles, construction activities, and industrial emissions contributed significantly to the deteriorating air quality. Early attempts to address this involved the introduction of compressed natural gas (CNG) for public transport in the early 2000s, following a Supreme Court directive. However, these measures proved insufficient to tackle the growing problem. The establishment of bodies like the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) and later the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) marked significant steps towards a more structured approach to air quality management. The evolution of policies and action plans reflects a growing understanding of the complex factors contributing to air pollution and the need for multi-faceted solutions.
Current Developments
In recent years, there has been increased focus on addressing stubble burning in neighboring states, a major contributor to Delhi's winter air pollution. Initiatives like providing subsidies for farmers to adopt alternative methods of crop residue management have been implemented. The use of technology, such as air quality forecasting models and real-time monitoring systems, has also become more prevalent. The CAQM has been actively involved in coordinating efforts across different states in the NCR region. Looking ahead, there is a growing emphasis on promoting electric vehicles, expanding public transportation, and implementing stricter emission norms for industries. The success of these measures will depend on effective enforcement and sustained commitment from all stakeholders.
Practice MCQs
Question 1
Consider the following statements regarding the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
1. It is a time-bound national level strategy for pan-India implementation to tackle the air pollution problem across the country.
2. NCAP aims to achieve a 20% to 30% reduction of PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by 2024, using 2017 as the base year.
3. The program is implemented by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: All the statements are correct regarding NCAP. It is a national-level strategy, aims for a 20-30% reduction in PM levels, and is implemented by CPCB.
Question 2
Which of the following best describes the function of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR)?
- It is primarily responsible for conducting research on air pollution.
- It coordinates efforts between states to control air pollution and implements the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
- It focuses solely on regulating industrial emissions in the NCR.
- It provides financial assistance to industries for adopting cleaner technologies.
Explanation: CAQM's primary function is to coordinate efforts between states in the NCR to control air pollution and implement GRAP.
Question 3
Consider the following statements regarding the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP):
1. GRAP is a set of emergency measures to reduce air pollution based on air quality levels.
2. It was formulated based on the recommendations of the Bhure Lal Committee.
3. The measures under GRAP are implemented only during the winter months.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: GRAP is a set of emergency measures based on air quality levels and was formulated based on the recommendations of the Bhure Lal Committee. However, it is implemented throughout the year, not just in winter.
Previous Year Questions
PYQ 1 - UPSC Prelims 2023 2023
Consider the following statements regarding the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
1. It aims to reduce PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by 20-30% by 2024, using 2017 as the base year.
2. It is a time-bound national level strategy for pan-India implementation to tackle the air pollution problem across the country.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: Both statements are correct. NCAP aims for a 20-30% reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by 2024 using 2017 as the base year and is a national-level strategy for tackling air pollution.
PYQ 2 - UPSC Mains 2022 2022
Discuss the challenges in implementing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the National Capital Region (NCR). What measures can be taken to improve its effectiveness?
PYQ 3 - SSC CGL 2023 2023
Which of the following pollutants is primarily targeted by the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)?
- (a) Carbon Monoxide (CO)
- (b) Ozone (O3)
- (c) Particulate Matter (PM10)
- (d) Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
Explanation: The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) primarily targets particulate matter, especially PM10 and PM2.5.
PYQ 4 - SSC CHSL 2023 2023
As per the report, which city showed improvement in reducing PM10 levels compared to Delhi?
- (a) Gurugram
- (b) Faridabad
- (c) Noida
- (d) Ghaziabad
Explanation: The report indicates that Noida showed progress in reducing PM10 levels, while Delhi failed to meet the NCAP targets.
PYQ 5 - IBPS PO 2023 2023
Which organization flagged deficiencies in the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the NCR, as mentioned in the report?
- (a) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
- (b) National Green Tribunal (NGT)
- (c) Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
- (d) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
Explanation: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) flagged deficiencies in the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the NCR.
PYQ 6 - SBI PO 2023 2023
What is the primary focus of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) concerning air pollutants?
- (a) Reducing Carbon Dioxide emissions
- (b) Reducing PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations
- (c) Promoting renewable energy sources
- (d) Improving waste management practices
Explanation: The primary focus of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) is on reducing PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations in the air.
PYQ 7 - CDS 2023 2023
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding PM10?
1. PM10 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less.
2. PM10 particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory problems.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation: Both statements are correct. PM10 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less, and these particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing respiratory problems.
PYQ 8 - CDS 2023 2023
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is implemented in the NCR primarily to:
- (a) Improve water quality
- (b) Manage solid waste
- (c) Control air pollution
- (d) Promote afforestation
Explanation: The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is implemented in the NCR primarily to control air pollution.