CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP has directed to enforce measures outlined under Stage II due to deterioration in NCR’s air quality index (AQI).

• Under GRAP-2, use of coal and firewood is restricted, and diesel generator sets will face limitations in operation. 

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+).
• Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas oversees implementation of GRAP.
  • CAQM was established under Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021.
  • It replaced Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control Authority).

Reason behind rising air pollution in Delhi during winters:

• Wind Direction: As monsoon withdraws, predominant direction of winds changes to north westerly which brings dust from Rajasthan and sometimes from Pakistan & Afghanistan.
• Temperature inversion: Layer of cool air forms near the ground, trapping pollutants and preventing them from dispersing. 
• Low wind speeds: Reduce the dispersion of pollutants.
• Stubble Burning: Farmers in neighbouring states burn crop stubble.
• Other Factors: Vehicular Emission, Industrial Emission, Construction dust, Garbage burning etc.