GRAP stands for the Graded Response Action Plan, a comprehensive set of emergency measures implemented to tackle severe air pollution levels, particularly in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India.
Understanding the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is an emergency action plan that mandates specific measures to be taken when air quality deteriorates beyond certain thresholds. It was formulated as part of the Supreme Court of India's directive in 2016 and officially notified in 2017. Its primary objective is to prevent air quality from worsening further and to mitigate the health impacts on residents by enforcing a graded set of actions.
Purpose and Implementation
The core purpose of GRAP is to provide a proactive and systematic approach to combating air pollution. Instead of reacting after pollution reaches critical levels, GRAP outlines a series of escalating measures that kick in automatically as air quality deteriorates.
- Proactive Strategy: It ensures that actions are initiated even before pollution reaches emergency levels, based on the severity of air quality.
- Preventive Measures: It focuses on preventing a public health emergency by taking steps like banning construction, restricting vehicle movement, and shutting down polluting industries.
- Central Authority: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas is responsible for implementing and enforcing GRAP. Previously, this role was held by the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA).
Stages of GRAP and Associated Actions
GRAP classifies the air quality into four distinct stages based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) readings, specifically focusing on PM2.5 concentrations. Each stage triggers a specific set of actions, increasing in stringency as the pollution levels rise.
| Category | AQI Range (PM2.5) | Key Actions (Examples) |
|---|---|---|
| Stage I (Poor) | 201-300 | • Ban on construction/demolition activities during night in identified areas. • Enhance public transport services and encourage use. • Impose penalties on open burning of waste and industrial emissions. • Regular mechanized sweeping of roads and water sprinkling. |
| Stage II (Very Poor) | 301-400 | • Regulate diesel generator sets by mandating use of cleaner fuels or linking to pollution control norms. • Increase parking fees to discourage private vehicle use. • Promote use of public transport and carpooling. • Strict vigilance on industrial emissions and dust pollution. |
| Stage III (Severe) | 401-450 | • Ban on construction and demolition activities (excluding essential projects like railways, metros, airports, hospitals, national security). • Stricter enforcement of odd-even scheme on vehicles (if implemented). • Closure of brick kilns and hot mix plants not operating on cleaner technologies. • Intensified public transport services. |
| Stage IV (Severe +) | 450+ | • Ban on entry of trucks (non-essential goods) into NCR. • Ban on all construction and demolition activities. • Closure of schools and non-essential commercial establishments. • Implementation of odd-even scheme on private vehicles. • Shut down thermal power plants within certain radii (if not compliant with emission norms). |
Note: The specific actions for each stage can be updated and refined by the implementing authority based on evolving environmental conditions and technological advancements.
Impact and Significance
GRAP serves as a critical tool in India's efforts to manage and mitigate air pollution, particularly in its most polluted regions. By providing a clear, actionable framework, it aims to:
- Reduce Exposure: Lower public exposure to hazardous air pollutants during peak pollution episodes.
- Improve Public Health: Protect vulnerable populations from severe respiratory and other health issues.
- Streamline Response: Ensure a coordinated and timely response from various government agencies and civic bodies, making the process transparent and accountable.
While GRAP outlines the necessary steps, its effectiveness heavily relies on strict enforcement and public cooperation. It represents a significant step towards institutionalizing a structured response to air quality emergencies.
