GRAP Stage 3: Understanding Its Role and How It Impacts Our Lives

In Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), air pollution has become a serious concern, especially during the winter when air quality drops significantly. To address this problem, the government has implemented the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), a step-by-step strategy to tackle air pollution based on its severity. GRAP ensures that specific actions are taken to reduce pollution when air quality worsens.

GRAP Stage 3, also called the “Severe” category, is activated when the Air Quality Index (AQI) ranges between 401 and 450, indicating hazardous pollution levels. This stage introduces strict rules to curb pollution and protect public health. Let’s explore what happens during GRAP Stage 3 and how it affects daily life.

What Actions Are Taken in GRAP Stage 3?

1. Construction and Demolition Ban
   • All construction and demolition activities are halted, except for essential projects such as railways, metro projects, hospitals, and sanitation work.
   • To control dust pollution, authorities ensure regular water sprinkling at construction sites and impose fines for violations.
2. Ban on Diesel Generators
   • The use of diesel generator (DG) sets is strictly prohibited, except in emergencies, such as at hospitals or in areas where essential services require uninterrupted power supply.
3. Increase in Public Transport
   • Public transport options like buses and metro trains are increased to reduce the reliance on private vehicles.
   • Authorities may also deploy extra buses to handle the surge in demand.
4. Restrictions on Private Vehicles
   • Rules such as the odd-even system may be implemented where vehicles with odd and even-numbered license plates alternate on the roads.
   • Non-essential trucks carrying non-perishable goods are stopped from entering the city.
5. Shutdown of Polluting Industries
   • Factories and industries that use highly polluting fuels, such as coal or wood, are closed. However, industries producing essential goods like food or medicines are allowed to operate.
6. Control of Garbage Burning and Road Dust
   • Burning of garbage, dry leaves, or agricultural waste is strictly prohibited. Authorities impose heavy fines on violators.
   • Road cleaning and dust suppression activities are intensified, especially in high-traffic areas.
7. Awareness Campaigns and Monitoring
   • Public awareness campaigns are launched to inform people about the dangers of air pollution and the importance of following GRAP rules.
   • Teams monitor compliance, and action is taken against those who violate regulations.

How Does GRAP Stage 3 Impact Daily Life?

1. Health Risks
   • Pollution levels during GRAP Stage 3 are incredibly harmful, especially for vulnerable groups like children, elderly people, and those with respiratory or heart conditions.
   • People are advised to stay indoors as much as possible, use N95 masks if they must go out, and avoid outdoor activities like jogging or walking.
2. Work and Business
   • Construction bans and factory closures can slow economic activities, particularly in the real estate and manufacturing sectors.
   • Workers dependent on daily wages in these industries may face temporary unemployment.
3. Travel and Commute
   • Increased public transport availability can lead to overcrowding on buses and metro trains.
   • Restrictions on private vehicles may cause inconvenience, especially for those who rely on their cars for daily commutes.

What Can Citizens Do During GRAP Stage 3?

1. Reduce Private Vehicle Use
   • Opt for carpooling or public transport to minimize the number of vehicles on the road.
   • Plan your travel to avoid unnecessary trips and save fuel.
2. Avoid Outdoor Activities
   • Limit outdoor exposure during peak pollution hours (usually early morning and evening).
   • Use air purifiers at home if possible, and close doors and windows.
3. Follow the Rules
   • Do not burn garbage, leaves, or other waste, which adds to the pollution.
   • Cooperate with authorities and report violations such as construction dust, waste burning, or polluting activities.
4. Adopt Environment-Friendly Habits
   • Plant more trees and encourage green spaces in your locality.
   • Reduce energy use at home to lessen the demand for power plants, which can contribute to pollution.

Why Is GRAP Stage 3 Important?

GRAP Stage 3 may seem strict, but it is critical in protecting public health. During this phase, pollution levels are so high that even healthy people can experience breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and other health problems. Long-term exposure to such air can lead to severe health issues, including asthma, lung infections, and even heart disease.

The plan is designed to temporarily control pollution spikes while encouraging long-term measures, such as using cleaner fuels, improving public transport infrastructure, and switching to renewable energy sources.

Conclusion

GRAP Stage 3 is a necessary response to tackle severe air pollution in Delhi-NCR. While the measures may cause some inconvenience, they are essential to reduce the harmful effects of poor air quality. Cooperation from both the government and citizens is key to ensuring the success of GRAP.

By following the guidelines, adopting environment-friendly habits, and spreading awareness, we can all contribute to cleaner air and a healthier future. Let’s work together to make our cities livable and protect ourselves and future generations from the dangers of air pollution.