CAQM applies Stage-II restrictions across NCR as Delhi AQI hits 324
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims + Mains·
Air quality management and emergency protocols: a relevant GS3 Environment and Ecology case study.
Why in news
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) imposed Stage-II restrictions across the National Capital Region (NCR) after Delhi's average AQI reached 324.
Background
The CAQM triggered Stage-II measures due to Delhi's AQI hitting 324, categorized as 'Very Poor'. Measures include mechanical road sweeping, water sprinkling, and increased Metro services.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyCAQM: Commission for Air Quality Management responsible for air quality management in NCR
- FactDelhi AQI reached 324, placing it in the 'Very Poor' category
Prelims practice question
With reference to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and air quality in the NCR, consider the following statements:
- The AQI level of 324 placed Delhi's air quality in the 'Excellent' category.
- Stage-II restrictions include only the increase of Metro services.
- The CAQM triggered Stage-II restrictions because Delhi's AQI reached 324.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)2 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 3 only — Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: The note states the AQI of 324 was categorized as 'Very Poor'. Statement 2 is incorrect: Measures also include mechanical road sweeping and water sprinkling.
For Mains
Q. Critically analyze the effectiveness of the CAQM's emergency measures in addressing the seasonal air quality crisis in the National Capital Region.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Institutional bottleneck: Coordination gaps between state and central agencies in enforcing industrial emission norms
- Enforcement gap: Difficulty in monitoring non-point source pollution like construction dust and road sweeping efficacy
Keywords: Air Quality Index · Stage-II restrictions · Commission for Air Quality Management · Non-point source pollution · Urban 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.