Pollution Chokes Delhi, New Restrictions In Place, Schools Go Online | GRAP 3 imposed

Summary

Delhi is facing a severe air pollution crisis, with the Air Quality Index reaching dangerous levels. In response, Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been implemented, introducing stringent measures like vehicle bans, restrictions on construction activities, and the promotion of public transportation. Health advisories are issued, with schools shifting to online classes for young children. The government emphasizes collective efforts from citizens, encouraging the use of electric heaters, cycling, and public transport to mitigate pollution. The video highlights these steps to protect public health and the environment, urging everyone to contribute to reducing pollution.

Takeaways

• 😀 The air quality in Delhi has reached hazardous levels, with the AQI touching 447, which led to the implementation of GRAP Stage 3.
• 😀 GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) is implemented when the AQI exceeds 200, and Stage 3 is triggered when the AQI surpasses 400, marking the worst air quality category.
• 😀 The major contributors to Delhi's pollution include stubble burning, traffic emissions, and other pollutants, which worsen the air quality every year.
• 😀 Stage 3 of GRAP imposes stringent restrictions, including halting construction activities like demolition and earthworks that produce particulate matter.
• 😀 Vehicle bans are imposed on BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel vehicles, including trucks and non-CNG buses. Only BS6 vehicles are allowed to operate.
• 😀 The government restricts the movement of medium goods vehicles with outdated diesel engines (BS3 standard) from entering Delhi and its surrounding areas.
• 😀 To reduce the pollution, the Delhi Metro will increase its services, adding 20 extra trips to help reduce congestion and promote public transport.
• 😀 Primary school physical classes (up to Class 5) have been shifted online to minimize exposure to pollution, which can severely affect children's health.
• 😀 Citizens are encouraged to reduce private vehicle use and instead walk, cycle, or use public transport, particularly during high-pollution hours (morning and evening).
• 😀 The script promotes UPSC exam preparation, offering a special batch and a discount code for students aiming for the next year's exams.
• 😀 To further address the pollution, residents are urged to avoid burning coal or wood and to provide alternative heating options to outdoor workers during winter months.

Q & A

What is GRAP and why was it implemented in Delhi?

GRAP, or Graded Response Action Plan, is a set of measures implemented to tackle air pollution in Delhi. It was enforced due to the hazardous levels of pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching dangerous levels, particularly due to factors like stubble burning and traffic emissions.

What are the different stages of GRAP?

GRAP consists of four stages: Stage 1 (AQI 200–300), Stage 2 (AQI 300–400), Stage 3 (AQI 400–450), and Stage 4 (AQI > 450). Each stage introduces increasingly strict measures to control air pollution, ranging from dust control to full shutdown of services.

What measures are taken in Stage 1 of GRAP?

In Stage 1, measures include dust control, restrictions on open burning, and advisories issued to the public to limit outdoor exposure. Traffic management and promotion of public transportation are also encouraged.

What restrictions are imposed during Stage 2 of GRAP?

Stage 2 brings more stringent measures, such as a ban on diesel generator sets, increased mechanized cleaning of roads, and water sprinkling on streets to control dust and pollution.

What is the impact of AQI exceeding 400 in Stage 3?

When the AQI exceeds 400, Stage 3 is implemented, which includes strict restrictions like halting construction activities, banning BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel vehicles, and limiting the movement of non-electric, non-CNG buses.

What is the most severe measure taken in Stage 4 of GRAP?

In Stage 4, which is implemented when the AQI exceeds 450, all construction activities are stopped, schools are closed, and the odd-even scheme is enforced for private vehicles. The entire city experiences a lockdown of non-essential activities.

How does air pollution affect public health, especially children?

Air pollution, especially at levels above 400 AQI, significantly impacts health, even in healthy individuals. Children are particularly vulnerable, as exposure to pollutants can lead to respiratory issues and other long-term health problems.

What are some key measures individuals can take to reduce exposure to pollution?

Individuals can avoid outdoor activities, especially in the morning and evening, use public transportation, walk or cycle during the day when pollution levels are lower, and work from home if possible to minimize exposure to polluted air.

What restrictions are placed on vehicles during high pollution levels?

During high pollution levels, vehicles that are BS3 petrol or BS4 diesel are banned from operating in Delhi and surrounding areas. Additionally, non-electric and non-CNG buses, as well as some medium goods vehicles, are also restricted from entering the city.

What actions are being taken by the Delhi Metro to reduce congestion during GRAP implementation?

The Delhi Metro has increased the number of trips it operates, with an additional 20 trips added to the schedule. This helps reduce congestion and encourages more people to use public transportation, minimizing the use of private vehicles.