The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a strategic initiative developed by the Department of Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) aimed at mitigating the impact of the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan is designed to provide a structured and systematic approach to imposing restrictions in various sectors such as markets, industries, offices, and public transport within the capital. These restrictions are determined based on specific COVID-19 related parameters including test positivity rates, case counts, and the occupancy rates of oxygen beds in hospitals. GRAP employs a color-coded system to convey the severity of the situation to the public and to outline the corresponding actions that need to be taken.
Understanding the Color-Coded System
The color-coded system used in the GRAP plays a crucial role in communicating the level of risk and the necessary restrictions to the public. The system includes four colors: yellow, amber, orange, and red, each representing a different level of alert and a set of measures that will be implemented.
Yellow Alert: Initial Warning
The yellow alert serves as the initial warning signal in the GRAP. It is activated when the test positivity rate exceeds 0.5% for two consecutive days or if the case count reaches up to 1,500 cases in a week. Additionally, if the oxygen bed occupancy goes over 500, the yellow alert will be issued. Under this alert, the action plan calls for moderate restrictions, such as reduced operational hours for non-essential shops and businesses, and limitations on gatherings and public events.
Amber Alert: Enhanced Precautions
When the situation escalates, and the test positivity rate is over 1% for two consecutive days, or the weekly case count surpasses 3,500, or oxygen bed occupancy exceeds 700, the amber alert is triggered. This alert level necessitates stricter measures compared to the yellow alert. Restrictions under the amber alert may include further reduction in the number of people allowed at gatherings, increased frequency of testing and surveillance, and potential curfews during non-peak hours.
Orange Alert: High Alert
The orange alert indicates a high level of concern and is set off when the test positivity rate crosses 2% for two consecutive days, the weekly case count is over 9,000, or oxygen bed occupancy climbs above 1,000. At this stage, the GRAP recommends aggressive restrictions which may involve partial lockdowns, closure of non-essential services, and stringent controls on movement and transportation to prevent further spread of the virus.
Red Alert: Maximum Response
The red alert represents the most severe level of response within the GRAP framework. It is enforced when the test positivity rate is above 5% for two consecutive days, the weekly case count exceeds 16,000, or oxygen bed occupancy is greater than 3,000. Under the red alert, the plan calls for a complete lockdown with only essential services operating. Public and private transport services are significantly curtailed, and there is a complete ban on gatherings of any kind.
Implementation and Enforcement
The implementation of GRAP requires close monitoring of the COVID-19 situation in the capital. Authorities rely on real-time data to assess the need for moving from one alert level to another. Enforcement involves coordination among various government departments, law enforcement agencies, and healthcare facilities. The DDMA ensures that the public is well-informed about the current alert level and the associated restrictions through media announcements and social outreach programs.
Impact on Daily Life and Economy
The GRAP has significant implications for daily life and the economy in Delhi. As the alert levels escalate, residents face increasing restrictions on mobility and activities. Businesses, especially those deemed non-essential, experience disruptions which can lead to economic stress. However, the primary objective of the plan is to safeguard public health and prevent the healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed during the pandemic’s peaks.
By adopting the GRAP, the DDMA aims to provide a transparent and adaptive response system that can effectively manage the spread of COVID-19 while minimizing the impact on the city’s residents and economy. The color-coded alerts serve as a guide for both authorities and the public to navigate the uncertain terrain of the pandemic with structured and phased measures.
