Centre’s Sub-Committee for operationalisation of GRAP has directed all relevant agencies in NCR to enforce measures outlined under Stage II of GRAP to prevent deterioration in air quality.

• GRAP Stage-2 in NCR enforces ban on use of coal and firewood and diesel generator sets, except for emergency and essential services.

About GRAP

• It is an emergency response mechanism based on AQI level of Delhi. It is divided into four stages, based on AQI levels. 
  • Stage 1: Poor category (AQI 201 to 300).
  • Stage 2: Very poor category (AQI 301-400).
  • Stage 3: Severe category (AQI 401-450). 
  • Stage 4: Severe + category (AQI 451+).
• CAQM in NCR and adjoining areas oversees implementation of GRAP.

Reasons for rise in air pollution every winter in Delhi

• As monsoon withdraws, predominant direction of winds changes to north westerly which brings dust from Rajasthan and sometimes from Pakistan & Afghanistan.
• High-speed winds are very effective at dispersing pollutants, and winters bring a dip in wind speed.
• Other sources: Farm fires to get rid of paddy stubble; Dust and vehicular pollution etc.

Initiatives to prevent Air Pollution

• 11-point action plan by CAQM includes mechanical sweeping, use of dust suppressant, etc.; System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR); Spraying PUSA bio-decompose in farmlands; etc.

About Air Quality Index (AQI) Issued by government agencies to gauge air pollution levels and communicate risks to public. Eight pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, NO2, SO2, CO, O3, NH3, and Pb) are considered for calculating AQI. About Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) Established under Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021. Replaced Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control Authority). Purpose: Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas for better coordination, research, identification, and resolution of air quality problems.