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)
About Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
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