Delhi invokes Stage II Graded Response Action Plan as air quality crosses 300
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims + Mains·
Environmental governance and pollution management: a key GS3 topic regarding GRAP and air quality.
Why in news
Delhi authorities invoked Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as air quality exceeded 300, entering the 'very poor' category.
Background
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was triggered due to air quality crossing the 300 mark. Measures include intensive road cleaning and increased public transport to mitigate vehicle emissions and crop stubble burning. The Supreme Court permitted certified green firecrackers for a limited period during the Diwali weekend.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceDelhi: Location where Stage II of the GRAP was invoked.
- Fact300: The air quality threshold that triggered the 'very poor' category and GRAP Stage II.
- BodySupreme Court: Body that allowed certified green firecrackers for a limited period.
- FactStage II: The specific level of the Graded Response Action Plan invoked.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi, consider the following statements:
- Stage II of the GRAP was invoked when air quality crossed the 300 mark.
- The Supreme Court banned all firecrackers during the Diwali weekend.
- GRAP measures include intensive road cleaning and increased public transport.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only — Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: The Supreme Court permitted certified green firecrackers for a limited period.
For Mains
Q. Critically analyze the effectiveness of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in managing seasonal air pollution in the National Capital Region.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Regulatory friction: Balancing festive cultural practices with stringent air quality standards
- Logistical bottleneck: Difficulty in scaling public transport and road cleaning to match rapid pollution spikes
- Source management: Challenges in coordinating inter-state crop stubble burning regulations with urban air quality goals
Keywords: Air Quality Index · Graded Response Action Plan · Vehicle Emissions · Crop Stubble Burning · Environmental Governance
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