Delhi’s Air Quality Crisis: AQI Breaches 400, GRAP 3 Delayed
Delhi’s air quality has plunged into the ‘severe’ zone (AQI 401-500), with hotspots like Anand Vihar and Rohini recording hazardous levels above 450. Despite the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) mandating Stage 3 curbs—such as banning construction and diesel vehicles—authorities have delayed enforcement, sparking public outrage and health warnings.
Why Is GRAP 3 Critical?
GRAP Stage 3 measures include:
– Construction ban (excluding essential projects).
– BS-III petrol/BS-IV diesel vehicles barred in NCR.
– Stone crushers and mining suspended.
Experts argue enforcement is overdue. “When AQI crosses 400 for 48 hours, GRAP 3 must activate. Delay risks lives,” said Dr. Arvind Kumar, a pulmonologist.
Reasons Behind the Hold-Up
- Political Hesitation: Elections and industry pressures may be stalling action.
- Economic Concerns: Real estate lobbies oppose construction halts.
- Stubble Burning: Punjab/Haryana’s farm fires contribute 30% of Delhi’s pollution, yet enforcement lags.
Health Emergency: Hospitals Overflowing
Hospitals report a 30% spike in respiratory cases. Children and seniors face the highest risk, with long-term exposure linked to lung damage and cardiovascular diseases.
Supreme Court Steps In
The SC recently slammed state governments for inadequate stubble-burning controls. Activists like Bhavreen Kandhari demand transparency: “Why wait for a catastrophe?”
Solutions Beyond Band-Aids
- Enforce GRAP 3 immediately.
- Subsidize farmers for eco-friendly stubble management.
- Fast-track EVs and smog towers for long-term relief.
The Bottom Line
Delhi’s toxic air demands urgent action—not excuses. With winters worsening pollution, GRAP 3 delays could prove deadly.
Share your views: Should Delhi shut construction to curb pollution?
— By [Your Name], The Times of India
