GRAP Stage 1 measures set to kick in as Faridabad air quality worsens
The Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) has issued directions to various departments to implement measures to curb air pollution under Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), set to be rolled out soon.
The GRAP has been instituted by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), an authority under the Union Ministry of Environment to keep a tab on air quality in the National Capital Region.
Weather contributing to decline in AQI
Instructions have been issued to the relevant departments to ensure the necessary measures are implemented to address the problem, as changing weather conditions are contributing to a decline in air quality. — An official, HSPCB
“Instructions have been issued to the relevant departments to ensure the necessary measures are implemented to address the problem, as changing weather conditions are contributing to a decline in air quality,” said an official of the HSPCB. The official explained that while the GRAP is designed to tackle pollution-related conditions, Stage 1 of the plan is expected to be activated either in October or as soon as the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses 200 for PM 2.5 (particulate matter measuring 2.5 microns in diameter). More than 20 directives have been issued under the guidance of the CAQM, including strict enforcement of dust mitigation norms for construction and demolition (C&D) activities, particularly for projects with plot sizes of 500 sq m or more that are not registered on the state’s web portal.
The directives also include proper collection and disposal of municipal and hazardous solid waste. Civic bodies have been instructed to implement mechanised road sweeping, water sprinkling on roads and the scientific disposal of dust at designated sites and landfills. The order also mandates the use of anti-smog guns at C&D sites, and the completion of road construction and maintenance projects during this stage.
The burning of biomass and civic waste in open areas has been prohibited, with authorities directed to impose maximum penalties in the form of Environment Compensation for violations, in line with National Green Tribunal (NGT) orders. Officials have been tasked with enforcing traffic regulations to curb the movement of polluting vehicles, and taking action against non-compliant industrial units, brick-kilns, hot mix plants as well as eateries and commercial establishments using non-clean fuels.
Meanwhile, the city’s average AQI was recorded at 131 today, which falls under the “moderate” category. However, in other parts of the NCR, including Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad, AQI levels exceeded 200.
Sandeep Singh, Regional Officer of the HSPCB, said the department would ensure compliance with the GRAP schedule.
