Delhi Revokes GRAP 2 Restrictions Amidst Improved Air Quality
Delhi lifts GRAP 2 restrictions due to improved air quality conditions.
Photo by shalender kumar
Key Facts
Delhi has revoked Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
The decision was made by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
The Air Quality Index (AQI) consistently remained in the 'moderate' category
Restrictions such as a ban on diesel generators (except for essential services) have been lifted
Increased parking fees have been lifted
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper III: Environment and Ecology - Air Pollution, Government Policies
Connects to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to clean air and health
Potential question types: Statement-based, analytical questions on effectiveness of GRAP
In Simple Words
Delhi's air got better, so officials removed some pollution rules. These rules, called GRAP 2, included things like limits on diesel generators. Now that the air is cleaner, those limits are gone for now.
India Angle
This affects daily life in Delhi because fewer restrictions mean businesses can run more smoothly. For example, shopkeepers who rely on generators during power cuts can use them again.
For Instance
It's like when your building lifts restrictions on visitors after a COVID wave subsides. Life gets a bit easier when the threat decreases.
Cleaner air means healthier lives for everyone. It also shows that efforts to control pollution can make a difference.
Cleaner air today, easier rules today.
Visual Insights
Delhi-NCR Air Quality Management
Map showing the National Capital Region (NCR) where GRAP is implemented to manage air quality.
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More Information
Background
Latest Developments
In recent years, there has been increased focus on finding long-term solutions to air pollution in Delhi-NCR. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has been actively reviewing and updating GRAP based on its effectiveness and changing pollution patterns. Efforts are also being made to promote the use of electric vehicles and improve public transportation to reduce vehicular emissions.
Several studies have been conducted to assess the impact of GRAP and other pollution control measures on air quality. These studies often highlight the need for better coordination between different agencies and stricter enforcement of regulations. The Delhi government has also been implementing measures such as odd-even schemes and tree plantation drives to combat pollution.
Looking ahead, the focus is on developing a comprehensive and sustainable approach to air quality management. This includes promoting cleaner fuels, investing in pollution monitoring infrastructure, and raising public awareness about the health impacts of air pollution. The goal is to achieve a consistent improvement in air quality and reduce the frequency of emergency measures like GRAP.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and why is it important for UPSC preparation?
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of emergency measures implemented in Delhi-NCR to combat air pollution based on the Air Quality Index (AQI). It's important for UPSC preparation as it highlights government strategies for environmental management and pollution control, which are key areas in the UPSC syllabus.
2. What are the key facts about the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) that are important for the UPSC Prelims exam?
For the UPSC Prelims, remember that GRAP is implemented in Delhi-NCR based on AQI levels. It was first notified in January 2017 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Also, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) plays a key role in GRAP implementation and revisions.
- •GRAP is a set of measures to combat air pollution.
- •It is implemented based on AQI levels.
- •The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change first notified it.
- •CAQM plays a key role in implementation.
Exam Tip
Focus on the implementing body (CAQM) and the basis of implementation (AQI) for Prelims.
3. Why has Delhi revoked Stage II of GRAP recently?
Delhi revoked Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) because the Air Quality Index (AQI) consistently remained in the 'moderate' category. This improvement in air quality prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to lift the restrictions.
4. What restrictions were lifted after revoking GRAP 2 in Delhi?
After revoking GRAP 2, restrictions such as a ban on diesel generators (except for essential services) and increased parking fees were lifted in Delhi. These measures were initially implemented to control air pollution when the AQI was higher.
5. What are the pros and cons of implementing GRAP in Delhi-NCR?
Implementing GRAP helps to quickly control air pollution during severe episodes, protecting public health. However, it can disrupt economic activities due to restrictions on industries and transportation. Finding a balance between environmental protection and economic stability is crucial.
- •Pros: Immediate action during pollution spikes, protects public health.
- •Cons: Disrupts economic activities, affects industries and transportation.
6. What are the recent developments related to long-term solutions for air pollution in Delhi-NCR?
Recent developments include the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) actively reviewing and updating GRAP based on its effectiveness. Efforts are also being made to promote the use of electric vehicles and improve public transportation to reduce vehicular emissions, aiming for sustainable long-term solutions.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): 1. GRAP is implemented only in Delhi-NCR. 2. The severity of actions under GRAP increases with worsening Air Quality Index (AQI) levels. 3. GRAP was first notified in 2019. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is INCORRECT: While GRAP is primarily implemented in Delhi-NCR, similar action plans can be adopted in other cities facing air pollution. Statement 2 is CORRECT: GRAP is designed to escalate actions as AQI worsens. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: GRAP was first notified in January 2017 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
2. Which of the following bodies is primarily responsible for implementing and monitoring the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR?
- 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
Show Answer
Answer: C
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is the primary body responsible for implementing and monitoring GRAP in Delhi-NCR. While other bodies like CPCB and NGT play a role in environmental regulation, CAQM has the specific mandate for GRAP implementation.
3. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is implemented under the provisions of which of the following Acts?
- A.Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
- B.Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
- C.Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
- D.National Green Tribunal Act, 2010
Show Answer
Answer: B
The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 provides the legal framework for measures like GRAP. This act empowers the central government to take necessary steps to protect and improve the environment, including implementing action plans to combat air pollution.
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Source Articles
GRAP 2 curbs revoked in Delhi as AQI improves | Delhi News - The Indian Express
GRAP 4 restrictions revoked in Delhi as air quality improves marginally | Delhi News - The Indian Express
Delhi AQI: GRAP-3 revoked as air quality improves. What changes and what restrictions stay
GRAP-II curbs lifted in Delhi-NCR amid marginal improvement in air quality
Delhi AQI Improves to 236, CAQM Revokes GRAP Stage III Curbs as Fog Alert Issued