Delhi air quality remains ‘severe’ as AQI stands at 439; minimum temperatures stay below normal
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims·
Why in news
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported a 'severe' AQI of 439 in Delhi, leading the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to reinstate Stage-IV GRAP measures.
Background
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported dense fog and cold wave conditions, significantly reducing visibility.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyCPCB: Central Pollution Control Board monitors air quality
- BodyCAQM: Commission for Air Quality Management oversees NCR air quality
- SchemeGRAP: Graded Response Action Plan includes Stage-IV measures for severe pollution
- BodyIMD: India Meteorological Department reports fog and cold wave conditions
For Mains
Q. Critically analyze the effectiveness of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in mitigating severe air pollution in the National Capital Region.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Institutional bottleneck: Coordination gaps between state and central agencies in enforcing Stage-IV restrictions
- Meteorological interplay: Synergy between stagnant atmospheric conditions (cold waves/fog) and industrial/vehicular emissions
- Policy trade-off: Balancing immediate economic activity restrictions against long-term public health imperatives
Keywords: Air Quality Index · Graded Response Action Plan · Atmospheric conditions · Public health · NCR pollution
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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.