Delhi’s air quality becomes “poor,” and GRAP Stage I measures begin to take effect

Authorities in the National Capital Region have been urged to strictly implement measures under “Stage 1” of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes a complete ban on the use of coal in roadside eateries, hotels, and restaurants, as Delhi’s air quality dropped to the “poor” level on Friday.

The subcommittee on GRAP for the Centre highlighted during a meeting that there had been a “sudden dip” in air quality indices in the area during the previous 24 hours, bringing Delhi’s AQI to 212 (bad category).

The Commission on Air Quality Management issued a statement saying, “It is considered necessary to invoke Stage-I of GRAP with immediate effect in the entire NCR in an effort to take steps to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region.”

GRAP divides acts into four categories: Stage I is considered “Poor” (AQI 201-300), Stage II is considered “Very Poor” (AQI 301-400), Stage III is considered “Severe” (AQI 401-450), and Stage IV is considered “Severe Plus” (AQI >450).

Authorities must also pursue criminal and judicial action against polluting industrial units under stage 1 of the process.