The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR & Adjoining Areas has unveiled a revised GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) to combat air pollution, particularly during the harsh winter months in the National Capital Region (NCR). A press release on these revisions was issued on September 18, 2024.
Revisions in GRAP
Action stages will be invoked in advance based on dynamic air quality models and weather forecasts.
Stage II (“Very Poor” AQI) now mandates dual-fuel mode or retrofitted emission controls for larger diesel generators (62 kW – 800 kW).
Stage III (“Severe” AQI) imposes a complete ban on specific dust-generating C&D activities across the entire NCR.
Stage III also restricts the following means of transportation:
- Delhi – registered BS-III diesel Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs) in Delhi
- BS-III LCVs (Light Commercial Vehicles- Goods Carriers) from outside Delhi.
- Only electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel inter-state buses will be allowed to enter Delhi. However, buses or tempo travelers operated with All India Tourist Permit will be permitted into Delhi.
The only exception to point 1 and 2 are MGVs and LVCs are those carrying essential commodities / providing essential services.
Overall Goals
The goal of these revisions in GRAP is to:
- Mitigate the impact of air pollution on public health.
- Reduce air quality deterioration during peak winter months.
CAQM encourages citizens to follow the Citizen Charter for air pollution control in the NCR.
