CAQM invokes actions under Stage I (‘Poor’ Air Quality) of revised GRAP in Delhi-NCR with immediate effect

The Commission for Air Quality Management (“CAQM”) in Delhi-NCR and adjoining areas has implemented all actions under Stage – I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) – ‘Poor’ Air Quality (Delhi AQI ranging between 201-300”) in view of the deteriorating air quality.

Implementing agencies and concerned persons have been directed to implement the below-mention with immediate effect:

Actions to be taken under Stage – I:  

1. Properly implement Directions/Rules/Guidelines on dust mitigation measures in construction and demolition (C&D) activities and sound environmental management of C&D waste.
2. Strictly comply with Direction Nos. 11-18 dated 11^th June, 2021 and do not permit C&D activities for these projects with plot size equal to or more than 500 sqm which are not registered on the web portal of the respective state/GNCTD and/or which do not fulfil the other requirements as given in these directions for remote monitoring of dust mitigation measures.
3. Strictly enforce statutory directions and yardsticks for use of anti-smog guns at C&D sites in proportion to the total area of construction for the project.
4. Prohibit open burning of biomass and municipal solid waste. Non-compliance/violation with this will attract imposition of maximum environmental compensation according to NGT’s orders dated 4^th December, 2014 and 28^th April, 2015 in OA 21/2014.
5. Ensure that there is no burning incidents in the landfill sites/dumpsites.
6. Strictly enforce PUC norms for vehicles.  
7. Strictly enforce all pollution control regulations in the industries, brick kilns and hot mix plants, etc. and strictly comply with the prescribed standards of emissions.
8. Use only approved fuels in NCR in all industries including in brick kilns and hot mix plants. Industries and plants will be closed in case of violation.
9. Enforce emission norms in thermal power plants.
10. Regularly lift and dispose off industrial waste from industrial and non-developed areas.
11. Do not use diesel generator sets as a regular source of power supply.
12. Strictly enforce extant ban on coal/firewood as fuel in tandoors in hotels, restaurants and open eateries.
13. Use only electricity/gas based/clean fuel based appliances in hotels, restaurants and open eateries.
14. Start unified commute for employees to reduce traffic on road.

Source: Press Information Bureau of India