Context:
As Delhi struggles with severe air pollution, the Supreme Court has ordered that all restrictions to control pollution remain in place until further notice. It also criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for acting too slowly to address the crisis.
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP):
- A set of emergency measures to be implemented to combat air pollution based on the severity of the Air Quality Index (AQI).
- Stages of Action –
- Stage I (Poor AQI 201-300) – Measures include stopping construction activities, enforcing dust control measures, and banning the use of diesel generators.
- Stage II (Very Poor AQI 301-400) – Additional measures like increasing parking fees, banning the use of coal and firewood in hotels and open eateries, and increasing public transport services.
- Stage III (Severe AQI 401-450) – Measures include closing brick kilns, hot mix plants, and stone crushers, and banning entry of trucks into Delhi (except essential commodities).
- Stage IV (Severe+ AQI >450) – Measures include stopping the entry of all trucks, stopping construction activities, and implementing odd-even schemes for private vehicles.
- Implementation monitored by – Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
- The plan is dynamic and can be adjusted based on the prevailing air quality conditions.
- Agencies Involved – Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs), local municipal bodies, and other relevant agencies.
Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM):
- A statutory body established to coordinate efforts to improve air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas.
- Key Functions –
- Policy Formulation – Develops policies and strategies for air quality management in the NCR.
- Coordinates with various state governments and agencies to implement air quality improvement measures.
- Monitoring and Enforcement – Monitors air quality and ensures compliance with air quality standards.
- Enforces actions under GRAP and other air quality regulations.
- Research and Development – Promotes research on air pollution control technologies and practices.
- Conducts awareness campaigns to educate the public about air pollution and its health impacts.
Source: The Hindu
Previous Year Question
In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in calculating the value of Air Quality Index?
1. Carbon dioxide
2. Carbon monoxide
3. Nitrogen dioxide
4. Sulfur dioxide
5. Methane
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2016 Prelims]
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
Air Quality Index doesn’t include carbon dioxide and methane.
