The capital Delhi is now gasping. People are suffering due to pollution. The air of Delhi-NCR is becoming suffocating day by day. The air quality index (AQI) was recorded above 300 on Sunday. This falls in the 'very bad' category. In view of the increasing pollution in Delhi-NCR, rules of GRAP-1 and GRAP-2 have already been implemented. Due to deteriorating air quality, anti-smog guns are being used near Sarai Kale Khan and the Rapid Rail construction site. In such a situation, there is a fear that soon the rules of GRAP-3 may also be implemented. If the situation continues to deteriorate like this, a 'lockdown' can also be imposed. Let us understand these restrictions one by one.
The Air Quality Commission applies Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) rules when pollution increases. GRAP is divided into a total of four phases. When the air quality is recorded as very poor (AQI 301-400) then the second stage rule is implemented. The third phase is implemented when AQI crosses 400. And once the AQI crosses 450, the fourth phase comes into effect. The second phase came into effect in Delhi-NCR on Saturday.
In the third phase of GRAP, diesel vehicles up to BS-IV will be banned in Delhi-NCR. Besides, there will be a complete ban on construction and demolition work except for essential government projects. Light commercial vehicles, trucks and medium to heavy goods vehicles registered outside Delhi, except essential services, will also be banned.
If the air of Delhi-NCR continues to deteriorate like this, the rules of GRAP-4 will be implemented. In this, all construction activities (government and non-government) will be banned. Orders will be issued to the state government to close schools and start online classes. Also, all government and private employees will be ordered to work from home.
The first and second phase of GRAP is implemented in Delhi-NCR. Many restrictions have been imposed under this. In the second phase, ban on burning coal and wood in tandoor, ban on diesel-powered generators except for essential services. Apart from this, parking charges have also been increased so that people use metro or government buses instead of private vehicles. In the first phase of GRAP, rules like fine on smoke emitted from vehicles, ban on throwing garbage in empty places, and sprinkling of water on roads have been imposed.
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