CAQM Orders Stricter Measures to Combat Pollution
In a bid to combat deteriorating air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Monday implemented GRAP-II in the Delhi-NCR region. The decision came as several parts of the national capital reported poor to very poor air quality levels.
According to the CAQM’s order, all actions outlined in Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for very poor air quality will be enforced in the NCR, in addition to the Stage-I measures already in place. The restrictions will take effect from 8:00 AM on October 22.
The move comes as air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR have been rising steadily. Anand Vihar, for instance, recorded an AQI of 226, categorized as “Unhealthy.” Other areas such as Mother Dairy Plant, ITO, and ITI Shahdara reported AQIs ranging from “Unhealthy” to “Very Unhealthy.”
To mitigate the impact of air pollution, the CAQM has urged citizens to opt for public transport and minimize the use of personal vehicles. The panel has also recommended using technology to find less congested routes, even if they are slightly longer.
Furthermore, the CAQM has appealed to residents to regularly replace air filters in their automobiles and avoid dust-generating construction activities during the months of October to January.
Dr. Rajesh Chawla, a senior consultant at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital’s critical care for respiratory diseases and sleep medicine department, told ANI that the rise in air pollution levels has led to a 10-15% increase in patients suffering from respiratory issues.