The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has officially clarified that Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has not been implemented in Delhi and the National Capital Region. This clarification comes amid growing public confusion about the current air quality measures in effect across the capital region.
Official Clarification on GRAP Implementation
In an official statement released on Sunday, the CAQM specifically addressed circulating reports about the implementation of GRAP's most severe stage. The commission explicitly stated that Stage IV of the GRAP has not been invoked in Delhi-NCR, despite the deteriorating air quality conditions that have plagued the region in recent days.
The clarification became necessary as many residents and businesses had begun operating under the assumption that the strictest pollution control measures were already in place. The CAQM emphasized that only the restrictions under Stages I, II, and III of the GRAP are currently being implemented across the National Capital Region.
Current Pollution Control Measures in Effect
While Stage IV remains unimplemented, several significant measures from the earlier GRAP stages are actively enforced. All construction and demolition activities have been banned throughout Delhi-NCR, with only essential projects receiving exemptions. The ban covers both public and private construction work, significantly impacting the real estate and infrastructure sectors.
The commission has also imposed restrictions on the operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi and the adjoining districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddh Nagar. This transportation restriction represents one of the most visible impacts of the current GRAP implementation on daily life in the capital region.
Understanding the GRAP Framework
The Graded Response Action Plan is a comprehensive framework designed to combat air pollution in Delhi-NCR through pre-defined measures that escalate as air quality deteriorates. The system operates on four distinct stages, with each stage triggering more stringent measures as air quality moves from 'Poor' to 'Severe' categories.
Stage I begins when the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses 201, classified as 'Poor.' Stage II activates at AQI 301 ('Very Poor'), while Stage III commences at AQI 401 ('Severe'). Stage IV, the most restrictive level, only activates when AQI exceeds 450, pushing into the 'Severe Plus' category. This final stage includes the most drastic measures, such as potential restrictions on truck entry and additional vehicle limitations.
The CAQM carefully monitors air quality parameters before deciding to implement any GRAP stage, considering multiple factors beyond just the AQI reading. The commission's clarification indicates that while air quality remains concerning, it hasn't yet reached the threshold that would necessitate Stage IV measures.
Public Response and Future Outlook
The clarification has brought some relief to industries and commuters who feared the immediate implementation of Stage IV restrictions, which would have included bans on diesel generators and additional transportation limitations. However, environmental experts continue to express concern about the persistent poor air quality in the region.
The CAQM continues to monitor the situation closely and has assured the public that appropriate measures will be implemented as needed based on scientific assessment of air quality parameters. The commission emphasized its commitment to taking all necessary steps to protect public health while minimizing disruption to economic activities.
Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and follow the prescribed pollution control measures currently in effect. The commission also encouraged the public to contribute to pollution reduction efforts by using public transportation, avoiding waste burning, and reporting violations of existing restrictions.
