Air pollution has the National Capital Region (NCR) in a very poor shape. To control this, the authorities have launched the Graded Response Action Plan II, or GRAP II. The same will definitely help in bringing the pollution levels down. In this blog post, we have discussed the important features and legal standards of the regulations under GRAP II and its implication for citizens.
What is GRAP II?
GRAP II is an umbrella approach that is to be followed to deal with air pollution. It has been conceptualized and designed by the authorities as an action to contain the increasing pollution during critical months, especially the winter months, which incidents of poor air quality have worsened drastically. Accordingly, it also mentions graded action measures based on prevailing pollution level.
This is GRAP II, based on the original GRAP which laid down the foundation to manage the air quality. The GRAP II compared to previous guidelines has stricter rules and clear-cut measures.
Key Features of GRAP II
In the blueprint of GRAP II lies some features that straightaway hook citizens and industries. It segregates pollution into four stages: moderate, poor, very poor, and severe. Each has definite steps based on each stage in the objective of reducing pollution.
The authority asks to observe the air quality closely at the moderate stage. They also suggest public awareness campaigns to educate the people. In case of a poor stage, the measures become sterner. The government may prohibit construction work and vehicle plying.
Finally, to reach the very poor stage, GRAP II implements drastic prohibitions on construction and demolition work. Public transport is also encouraged instead of personal vehicles. The public is triggered towards cleaner fuels.
Critical stage: In the final stage, GRAP II strictly prohibits industrial activities. These comprise halting operations in industries that contribute most to pollution. This approach ensures that emissions are at their least at critical times.
Allowed Activities under GRAP II
Despite the prohibited ones, there are still some allowed ones under GRAP II. An example would include emergency services, health services, and vital supply chain since they will be run with the minimum disturbance. In this way, essential operations will continue without any further obstructions when pollution levels rise.
It is also possible to engage in outdoor exercises, though this requires care and caution. Governments promote outdoor exercise when the air quality is relatively healthy. Afforestation and other community green activities also take place to plan.
Educational institutions will not be closed as well since schools are expected to reduce the number of outdoor engagements. This way, students shall get education while keeping fit health-wise.
Banned Activities under GRAP II
GRAP II prescribes different activities that are governed by severe constraints. For example, construction and demolition activities are strictly regulated and sometimes they are totally stopped at times of pollution peak.
Moreover, the policy bans the burning of wastes and crop residues. Such a ban targets one of the largest contributors to air pollution. The laws through such a constraint are expected to lower dangerous airborne particulate matter even lower.
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Impacts on Residents and Industries
Implementation of GRAP II would have innumerable implications for the residents and industries in terms of how they are going to work. For the residents, the whole program creates emphasis on public health. The government, through implementing stricter regulations, will protect its people from the negative impacts of pollution.
As for the industries, new norms must be followed. Operative restrictions may disrupt their activities. However, these changes also make the industries innovate through cleaner technologies.
Moreover, the plan fuels more public awareness regarding air quality. As the residents become more concerned and aware, the better they can take action with initiatives that improve their environment. This may propel community-driven efforts against air pollution.
Future Directions: The Way Forward on Air Quality Management
The initiative of GRAP II will serve as a precedent for future air quality management. Looking ahead as the trend of pollution continues to change, so will the necessity for a plan reassessed by the authorities. The public too would prove to be an active participant in making the plan successful.
It is also through the interactions between government bodies, industries, and citizens that hold the key to alleviating air pollution. Together, they will find newer ways to combat this menace.
Conclusion In this respect, the measures that the government has taken to manage air quality in the NCR is through proactive GRAP II. Although the regulations seem holistic and only capable of achieving practical reductions in pollutants, there is clear commitment to cleaner air. GRAP II, on the whole, safeguards public health by behaving environmentally responsibly.
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