EPCA Implements GRAP to Combat Delhi Air Pollution

The Environmental Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) is gearing up to implement an emergency action plan in Delhi, aiming to counter the escalating issue of air pollution. This proactive strategy, named the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), was formulated by the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MoEFCC) following the Supreme Court’s directive in December 2016. The primary objective of GRAP is to engage various government agencies in taking requisite measures to control the deteriorating Air Quality of Delhi-NCR (National Capital Region) and to keep PM10 and PM2.5 levels from crossing the ‘moderate’ threshold on the national Air Quality Index (AQI). As entrusted by the law, the EPCA holds the responsibility to enforce GRAP in the city based on the pollution levels.

Understanding the Multi-tiered Approach of GRAP

The preventive and corrective measures outlined in the Graded Response Action Plan are divided into different categories, each tailored to respond to specific pollution levels. These levels are determined by the ambient Particulate Matter (PM) concentration.

Measures for ‘Moderate to Poor’ Pollution Levels

When PM 2.5 ranges between 61-120 µg/m3 and PM10 scales between 101-350 µg/m3, the following steps are proposed:

• Enforce pollution control in thermal power plants
• Implement mechanized sweeping on roads
• Prohibit the use of firecrackers and the act of burning garbage

Methods to Counter ‘Very Poor’ Pollution Levels

If PM2.5 varies from 121-250µg/m3 and PM10 from 351-430 µg/m3, the plan suggests:

• Discontinuing the use of diesel generator sets
• Enhancing bus and metro services and frequencies
• Ceasing the use of coal or firewood in hotels and open eateries

Procedures for ‘Severe’ Pollution Levels

When PM2.5 surpasses 250µg/m3 and PM10 exceeds 430µg/m3, GRAP enforces:

• Increase in frequency of mechanized road sweeping and water sprinkling on roads
• Closure of brick kilns, Hot Mix plants, and Stone Crushers
• Shutting down of the Badarpur power plant
• Introduction of concessional rates to stimulate off-peak travel in public transport

Approach for ‘Severe+ or Emergency’ Pollution Levels

In scenarios where PM2.5 levels reach 300µg/m3 or above and PM10 500µg/m3 or more, persisting for 48 hours or longer, the plan recommends:

• Ban on entry of diesel trucks into Delhi (excluding essential commodities)
• Halt all construction activities
• Implement the odd and even vehicle scheme
• Shut down of schools

A Glimpse into Some Crucial Pollution Facts

National Air Quality Index (AQI)

National Air Quality Index (AQI), under the aegis of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), serves to inform the populace about the status of eight key pollutants. These include PM2.5, PM10, Ammonia, Lead, Nitrogen Oxides, Sulfur Dioxide, Ozone, and Carbon Monoxide.