In response to escalating pollution levels, Delhi NCR has reinstated portions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) 3 after a 24-day hiatus. Although the implementation of GRAP 3’s provisions was initially slated for Friday, the central government decided to enforce only some of these provisions on Saturday.
Intensified Anti-Pollution Measures
Following the recommendations of the CMQM, a range of restrictions has been imposed while simultaneously increasing the frequency of certain activities to combat pollution. These include vacuum cleaning of roads, pre-peak hour water sprinkling, disposal of road dust, and water spraying at pollution hotspots and busy streets. However, construction and demolition activities have been completely halted in the city.
Restrictions Under GRAP-3
During GRAP-3, the prohibition extends to excavation and filling work for construction, structural construction, welding, and demolition activities. Additionally, loading and unloading of construction materials, tile cutting, grinding, mining-related activities, and operation of concrete and hot mix plants are prohibited.
Public Transportation and Travel Encouragement
Authorities have directed an increase in public transportation services and encouraged travel during non-peak hours by differentiating fares for busy and non-busy times. Moreover, driving on unpaved roads is now restricted.
Exemptions from Restrictions
Projects related to railways, metro services, airports, interstate bus terminals, national security, defense, national importance, hospitals, roads, highways, flyovers, electricity supply, water supply, and sewage management are exempted from GRAP-3 restrictions.
Delhi: Second Most Polluted City in India
After nearly a month, Delhi’s air quality index soared above 400, categorizing it as ‘severe’. Fog and low wind speeds have exacerbated local conditions, making Delhi’s air suffocating. The air quality is expected to remain in the ‘severe’ category over the weekend and on Christmas Day.
GRAP-3 Reimplemented After Three Weeks
It’s worth noting that GRAP-1 was implemented on October 6 this year, followed by GRAP-2 on October 21, GRAP-3 on November 2, and GRAP-4 on November 5. These were lifted on November 18, but due to increasing pollution, GRAP-3 restrictions have been reinstated.
🔍 Important Information Table
- GRAP-3 Reimplementation Date: After 24 days
- Key Measures: Increased road cleaning, water sprinkling, construction ban
- Public Transport: Encouragement of non-peak hour travel
- Exemptions: Essential services and national importance projects
- Air Quality Index: Above 400 (‘Severe’ category)
- Next Review: Over the Christmas weekend
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