The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and other interventions aim to combat Delhi's severe air pollution, but seasonal spikes persist.
Avg AQI (Winter)
350+
Annual Deaths Attributed
1.2 Lakh
GRAP Stages
4 Levels
CAQM Budget
₹700 Cr
Delhi's air pollution is a multi-source crisis: vehicular emissions (28%), stubble burning (25% in Oct-Nov), industrial pollution (20%), construction dust (15%), and household emissions (12%). Thermal inversion traps pollutants in winter. The absence of a unified airshed management approach across NCR states (Delhi, UP, Haryana, Rajasthan) limits effectiveness.
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) with 4 stages activated based on AQI. Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) formed in 2021. Key measures: BS-VI norms since 2020, EV policy, Pusa bio-decomposer for stubble, smog towers, and real-time source apportionment studies. The Supreme Court-appointed EPCA monitors compliance.
Citizens can use real-time air quality apps (SAFAR, CPCB), adopt carpooling and public transport, install air purifiers, report construction dust violations via the Sameer app, and avoid open waste burning. Farmers can adopt the Pusa bio-decomposer technology as an alternative to stubble burning.
CAQM operational budget of ₹700 Cr. NCAP (National Clean Air Programme) has ₹7,600 Cr for 131 non-attainment cities. EV subsidies under FAME II: ₹10,000 Cr. Central assistance for CNG conversion and metro expansion in Delhi exceeds ₹50,000 Cr.
Beijing reduced PM2.5 by 58% from 2013 to 2022 through coal-to-gas conversion, industrial relocation, and strict vehicle bans. London's ULEZ expanded in 2023. Mexico City's "Hoy No Circula" program shows mixed results. Delhi's challenge is uniquely complex due to its population density, multi-state governance, and geographic factors (Himalayan foothills trap pollution).
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