• Source:JND
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Considering the increasing air quality crisis in the National Capital Region, the Commission for Air Quality Management(CAQM) on Tuesday ordered the immediate implementation of Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR as the Air Quality Index (AQI) dipped to the "poor" category.

The CAQM on Tuesday stated that Delhi's AQI was recorded at 208 on May 19 and fell under the 'poor' category. As per the forecasting from the IMD & IITM, the air quality is expected to remain under the poor category for the next couple of days.

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"The Sub-Committee, accordingly, decides to invoke all actions under Stage-I ('Poor' Air Quality| of the extant GRAI' in the entire NCR, with immediate effect. Actions under Stage-l of the extant GITAP shall be implemented, monitored and reviewed by all the agencies concerned in the entire NCR to ensure that the AQI levels do not slip further. All implementing agencies shall keep strict vigil and intensify measures of the extant GRAP schedule. Citizens may be requested to strictly adhere to the citizen charter under GRAP Stage-I," Commission for Air Quality Management said.

CAQM has directed all departments and agencies under the Delhi-NCR to start implementing all preventive measures under Stage 1 of the GRAP immediately. Strict control of dust on the roads, dust checks on construction sites, no burning of garbage in the open, and traffic control were a part of this enforcement.

The Commission has asked the agencies to increase surveillance, maintain a watchful eye and prevent an upward rise in the pollution levels. Citizens have been asked to adhere to the guidelines that come under GRAP-1 to curtail air pollution.

What is GRAP Stage 1?

GRAP Stage 1 is triggered when the AQI of Delhi-NCR exceeds the 200 mark and is rated in the "poor" category. Some of the most restrictive anti-pollution and preventive measures get activated during this stage.

Restrictions imposed under GRAP-1:

-Using coal and firewood for cooking in hotels and restaurants is banned.

-Stricter dust checks for BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles.

-Stringent control measures for construction sites against dust.

-C&D Waste management at the site becomes necessary.

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C&D waste stands for Construction and Demolition waste. It refers to the debris and leftover material generated during the construction, renovation, repair, or demolition of buildings and infrastructure projects. 

No construction/demolition activities to be allowed on 500 sqm or larger plots unless it is registered on a specific portal and dust control norms are adhered to.


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