As AQI Hits 317, Delhi Invokes Stage 2 of GRAP: What It Means for You

The air quality in Delhi has worsened with an Air Quality Index of 317 recorded this morning. This is the “very poor” category. In response the Commission for Air Quality Management has implemented Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan.

What is the scale range for the AQI scale? According to the standards the ranges from 0 to 50 are categorized as good, the 51 to 100 is satisfactory, 101 to 200 is moderate, 201 to 300 is poor, the range between 301 to 400 is very poor, 401 to 450 is under severe, and above 450 is severe-plus. With forecasts indicating the air quality will remain in the “very poor” range in the coming days, several measures are being enforced to curb pollution.

Under Stage 2 of GRAP the restrictions are placed on the use of coal, firewood, and diesel generator sets in Delhi-NCR. Mechanical sweeping daily water sprinkling on roads, and dust control at construction sites are part of the plan. Traffic personnel will be deployed at congested areas, parking fees will be increased, and additional bus and metro services will be introduced to reduce private vehicle use.

Residents are advised to use public transport, avoid construction activities that generate dust, replace air filters in vehicles regularly, and refrain from burning solid waste or biomass in open areas.

Also Read | Chennai Court Sentences Three to 12 Years for Ganja Possession

These measures are in addition to the Stage 1 actions that have been in effect since October 15.

Gopal Rai the Environment Minister of Delhi government has launched the “Red Light On-Gaadi Off” campaign, this campaign aims to raise awareness in between drivers to switch off vehicle engines at red lights to reduce pollution.

Gopal Rai also announced the setting up of a green war room to monitor pollution as well as anti-dust drives and spraying of bio-decomposer over 5,000 acres to tackle stubble burning.