JB Expert November 14, 2024

In Delhi, GRAP is divided into different stages based on AQI (Air Quality Index) levels, with Stage 3 generally implemented when the AQI crosses the 400 mark, indicating a “Severe” level of pollution. Here’s a breakdown of what GRAP Stage 3 curbs mean:

Delhi GRAP 3 Curbs Explained: Severe Pollution Restrictions & Health Guidelines - November 15, 2024

🚦 Key GRAP Stage 3 Restrictions and Guidelines

  1. 🚗 Ban on Non-Essential Commercial Vehicles
    • Entry of heavy and medium commercial vehicles is restricted within the NCR region to reduce vehicular emissions.
    • Only essential vehicles, such as those carrying food, water, or medical supplies, are allowed.
  2. 🏗️ Suspension of Construction Activities
    • All construction and demolition activities, including private and government projects, are halted.
    • Essential projects related to railways, airports, and certain healthcare projects are exceptions.
    • Emphasis on monitoring dust control at sites and penalties for violations.
  3. 🚛 Ban on Brick Kilns, Hot Mix Plants, and Stone Crushers
    • Industries contributing significantly to air pollution are shut down during Stage 3, including brick kilns, hot mix plants, and stone crushers.
    • Compliance checks and penalties are intensified to ensure adherence.
  4. ♻️ Industrial Restrictions
    • Industrial units operating on non-clean fuels such as coal or firewood are suspended.
    • Industrial operations that do not use PNG (Piped Natural Gas) or clean fuels face penalties and restrictions.
  5. ♨️ Restrictions on DG Sets
    • Diesel Generator (DG) sets are banned, with allowances only for emergency purposes like hospitals or critical infrastructure.
    • Residential societies and offices are encouraged to have contingency plans or use cleaner alternatives.
  6. 🚌 Increased Public Transport
    • The government boosts public transportation by adding more buses and metros to reduce reliance on private vehicles.
    • Encouragement for carpooling, use of electric vehicles, and public transit to minimize vehicular pollution.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Public Advisory During GRAP Stage 3

  1. 🚶 Minimize Outdoor Activities
    • Citizens, especially children, elderly people, and those with respiratory conditions, are advised to limit outdoor activities.
  2. 🪟 Keep Windows Closed
    • Avoid opening windows, especially in the morning when smog is heavy.
    • Use air purifiers indoors to reduce particulate exposure.
  3. 😷 Wear Masks
    • Use N95 or equivalent masks outdoors to reduce exposure to PM2.5 and other harmful particles.
  4. 🛵 Opt for Public Transport
    • Limit the use of private vehicles; prefer public transport, shared rides, or EVs to reduce traffic emissions.

🛠️ Initiatives Taken by Authorities

  1. 🚨 Emergency Response Teams
    • Deployment of rapid action teams to penalize violations and ensure compliance with GRAP curbs.
  2. 🚁 Anti-Smog Guns and Water Sprinklers
    • Increased use of anti-smog guns and water sprinklers on roads and construction sites to suppress dust particles.
  3. 📲 Awareness Campaigns
    • Information campaigns to educate the public about health risks, GRAP regulations, and pollution-reducing practices.

🌱 Alternatives and Recommendations for Businesses

  1. Adopt Remote Work Models
    • Encourage remote work or hybrid work policies to reduce commuting.
  2. Switch to Sustainable Fuels
    • Industries that can operate on cleaner fuels are advised to do so.
  3. Optimize Deliveries and Supply Chains
    • Reroute or reschedule non-essential deliveries to times of lower pollution levels if possible.

🌐 Final Word

GRAP Stage 3 restrictions are critical to protecting public health as pollution levels reach hazardous levels in Delhi. These measures aim to limit activities contributing to pollution, especially from construction, vehicular traffic, and certain industries. By following these guidelines, residents and businesses in Delhi can contribute to a cleaner environment..

The “GRAP 3” or Graded Response Action Plan Stage 3 in Delhi signifies a higher level of air pollution response due to the ongoing rise in pollution levels. As of November 15, several actions and curbs are in place to mitigate the environmental and health impacts of deteriorating air quality. Here’s a detailed guide on GRAP 3 and the corresponding restrictions:

Understanding GRAP: An Overview

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of emergency measures implemented in Delhi-NCR based on the air quality index (AQI) levels to control pollution and protect public health. Initiated by the Environment Pollution (Prevention & Control) Authority (EPCA) in 2017, GRAP classifies measures across four stages based on AQI severity:

  1. Stage I: Poor AQI (201-300)
  2. Stage II: Very Poor AQI (301-400)
  3. Stage III: Severe AQI (401-450)
  4. Stage IV: Severe+ AQI (Above 450)

Each stage under GRAP calls for specific restrictions to control pollution sources, such as vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and construction dust.

Current Status: GRAP 3 in Action

As of November 15, Delhi has entered Stage 3 of GRAP, indicating severe pollution levels. In this stage, the focus is on stricter controls and limiting activities that contribute significantly to air pollution. Here’s a breakdown of the restrictions in effect:

1. Construction and Demolition Ban

  • All construction and demolition activities are temporarily banned across Delhi-NCR.
  • Exemptions are in place for specific essential projects, such as national security, defense projects, transportation infrastructure, and projects related to health care or sanitation.
  • Exceptions for critical projects: Ongoing work for metro, airport, and railway expansion may continue under strict dust-control measures.
  • Guidelines for exempted sites: They must use anti-smog guns, cover loose soil, and install dust barriers to limit airborne particles.

2. Use of Water Sprinklers and Anti-Smog Guns

  • Municipal corporations and agencies have increased the use of water sprinklers, especially on roads and public spaces to reduce dust.
  • Anti-smog guns are deployed in critical areas, particularly near construction sites and heavily trafficked zones.
  • Night-time sprinkling: During the late evening and early morning when pollution levels tend to spike, extra efforts are made to keep dust levels low.

3. Industrial Emission Control

  • Polluting industries that rely on high-emission fuels (like coal and diesel) are either closed or instructed to limit operations.
  • Only cleaner fuel industries: Industries using cleaner fuels, such as natural gas or electricity, are allowed to operate.
  • Power plants in the NCR region that utilize non-compliant fuels are temporarily shut down to further reduce emissions.

4. Traffic and Transportation Restrictions

  • Restriction on heavy vehicles: Trucks, except for those carrying essential goods, are restricted from entering Delhi.
  • Ban on diesel vehicles: Diesel-run light motor vehicles, especially older models, may face restrictions in certain areas, with a push toward CNG and electric vehicles.
  • Odd-Even Scheme: The Delhi government may announce an Odd-Even vehicle rule if air quality worsens further.

5. Public Awareness and Health Advisory

  • Schools advised to limit outdoor activities for children and, if necessary, implement online classes to protect students.
  • Health advisories: Vulnerable groups, such as elderly individuals, children, and those with respiratory conditions, are advised to avoid outdoor activities, particularly in the early morning and evening.
  • Air quality updates: Real-time air quality monitoring updates are provided to the public through various channels to keep residents informed.

6. Energy and Power Supply Adjustments

  • Power plant limitations: Older coal-fired power plants near Delhi are limited in operation, shifting the load to cleaner power sources.
  • Public energy conservation: Residents are encouraged to conserve energy, as power generation contributes to pollution levels.

Tips for Residents: Minimizing Health Impacts

For residents of Delhi, taking preventive measures to minimize exposure to pollution is essential during this period. Here are some health-focused tips:

🧴 Use of Masks

  • N95 or higher-grade masks: Wearing a mask outdoors, especially during peak pollution hours, can reduce exposure to harmful particles.

🏡 Indoor Air Quality

  • Air purifiers: Use air purifiers at home and workplaces, especially in rooms where you spend the most time.
  • Indoor plants: Certain plants, such as aloe vera and snake plants, can help improve indoor air quality.

🚶 Adjust Outdoor Activities

  • Limit exercise: Avoid outdoor physical activities and exercise during high pollution hours (early morning and evening).
  • Use air quality apps: Monitor AQI levels through apps and avoid going out during peak hours.

🌬 Ventilation Techniques

  • Seal windows and doors: When AQI is severe, it’s better to keep windows and doors closed to prevent polluted air from entering.
  • Ventilate carefully: Open windows for fresh air only when the AQI shows improvement, typically during midday.

Conclusion

Delhi’s implementation of GRAP 3 is a critical response to rising pollution levels. Adhering to these restrictions and guidelines is essential to help control pollution and reduce health risks for residents. The measures, though inconvenient, aim to mitigate the immediate dangers posed by high pollution levels.