Delhi and NCR enforce Stage I Graded Response Action Plan as AQI fails
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims + Mains·
Air pollution management: a GS3 case study on multi-sectoral pollution sources and regulatory actions.
Why in news
The Commission for Air Quality Management enforced Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and the NCR due to deteriorating AQI.
Background
Data from the Ministry of Earth Sciences' Decision Support System indicates that cities contribute 37% of PM2.5 pollution, vehicles 20.8%, and stubble burning 10.9%. The Capital will prohibit vehicles below Bharat Stage VI emission standards from 1 November to 31 January 2027.
Facts for Prelims
- FactCities contribute 37% of PM2.5 pollution in Delhi/NCR
- FactVehicles contribute 20.8% to PM2.5 pollution
- FactStubble burning contributes 10.9% to PM2.5 pollution
- FactVehicles below Bharat Stage VI standards are prohibited from 1 November to 31 January 2027
- BodyCommission for Air Quality Management is the body enforcing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
Prelims practice question
According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' Decision Support System, what percentage of PM2.5 pollution in Delhi/NCR is attributed to stubble burning?
- (a)15.5%
- (b)20.8%
- (c)10.9%
- (d)37%
Show answer
Answer: (c) 10.9% — The note specifies that stubble burning contributes 10.9% to PM2.5 pollution.
For Mains
Q. Critically analyze the effectiveness of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in mitigating Delhi's winter air pollution, considering the multi-sectoral sources of PM2.5.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Source attribution: High contribution from urban industrial clusters and transport compared to agricultural residue burning
- Policy efficacy: Inconsistent AQI reduction despite Stage IV implementation highlights limitations of reactive measures
- Regulatory hurdles: Enforcement of Bharat Stage VI standards and regional coordination across NCR boundaries
Keywords: Graded Response Action Plan · PM2.5 pollution · Bharat Stage VI · Decision Support System · Air Quality Management
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.