11th to 21st January 2024 - Commission for Air Quality Management Sub-Committee for operationalization of GRAP In Delhi- NCR. Flashcards
What are the key factors that led to a recent spike in Delhi’s AQI (Air Quality Index)?
The Sub-Committee identified unfavorable weather conditions (low wind speed, increased moisture, low mixing heights) and local pollution sources (including open burning) as primary contributors.
Describe the purpose of the CAQM. When was it formed and why?
The CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management) is a statutory body formed in 2021 under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act 2021.
It replaced the EPCA (Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority).
Its primary purpose is to improve air quality in the NCR (National Capital Region) and surrounding areas through better coordination, research, problem identification, and resolution.
What are “adjoining areas” in the context of air quality management for the NCR?
Adjoining areas are the regions within the neighboring states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. These areas are included because their pollution sources can significantly impact the air quality of the NCR.
Explain the relationship between the AQI (Air Quality Index) and health breakpoints.
The AQI has six categories ranging from Good to Severe.
Each category is determined by the concentration of air pollutants like PM10, PM2.5, NO2, and others.
Health breakpoints are specific concentration levels for each pollutant where negative health effects become more likely. These breakpoints are used to determine the AQI category.
What is the GRAP and why was it implemented?
GRAP stands for Graded Response Action Plan.
It’s a set of emergency measures designed to combat worsening air quality in the Delhi-NCR region.
The Supreme Court mandated GRAP in 2016, and it was notified in 2017
It works in stages - measures become increasingly strict as the AQI worsens.
What are the four stages of GRAP, and when is each activated?
Stage 1 (Poor AQI: 201-300): Mild restrictions, like on construction waste and open burning.
Stage 2 (Very Poor AQI: 301-400): Stricter bans on garbage burning, increased mechanized road cleaning.
Stage 3 (Severe AQI: 401-450): Potential closure of brick kilns, stone crushers, increased parking fees, possible ban on diesel generators.
Stage 4 (Severe+ AQI: Above 450): Potential bans on the entry of trucks into Delhi, closure of schools, odd-even vehicle schemes, etc.
Aside from the Delhi NCR, which other states are involved in the CAQM’s efforts for air quality management?
The CAQM works with the states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
What was the name of the body the CAQM replaced, and what year did this transition occur?
The CAQM replaced the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) in 2021.
The National Air Quality Index focuses on eight specific pollutants. Name at least five of them.
Five of the pollutants are:
PM10 (Particulate Matter 10)
PM2.5 (Particulate Matter 2.5)
NO2 (Nitrogen Dioxide)
SO2 (Sulphur Dioxide)
CO (Carbon Monoxide)
Imagine the AQI in Delhi reached the ‘Severe’ category. Provide three examples of measures that might be implemented under GRAP.
A ban on construction activities.
Closure of industries not running on clean fuels.
Introduction of the odd-even vehicle scheme based on license plate numbers.
