GRAP Phase I, II, III & IV Instructions: Here’s Everything You Need

Declining air quality in the National Capital Region of Delhi prompted the Council of Air Quality Management (CAQM) yesterday to implement the fourth phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the capital’s daily average air quality index (AQI) rose sharply to 441 at 4 pm on November 17 and to 457 at 7 pm on the same day, leading to the activation of GRAP Phase IV and the district’s adoption of Several restrictions are in place to combat air pollution. Before introducing the fourth phase in detail, let us first understand the concept of GRAP and other measures.

What is GRAP?

GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) is an emergency action plan implemented in four phases based on the Air Quality Index (AQI), which measures the severity of air pollution. The first phase of GRAP kicks in when the AQI reaches 201-300, indicating “poor” air quality. On the other hand, the second phase came into effect and the AQI level reached the 301-400 mark, indicating “very poor” air quality.

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The air quality in the third phase is ‘severe’ with AQI reaching the 401-450 range, while the air quality in the fourth phase is ‘severe+’ (Delhi AQI > 450).

GRAP Phase 1

The first phase of the graded response action plan is implemented when the air quality index falls between 201 and 300. During this phase, the government enforced regulations on the use of anti-smog guns at construction sites and mandated regular removal of municipal solid waste, construction debris, and demolition debris. , and hazardous waste from designated dump sites. It also imposes hefty fines for burning garbage and cleaning without water, and ensures that guidelines on dust control measures are properly implemented. Additionally, authorities are enforcing stricter compliance with emission control (PUC) standards, which impose fines on cars emitting tailpipe emissions.

GRAP Phase 2

Stage 2 GRAP takes effect when air quality drops between 301 and 400, considered “very poor.” During this phase, the burning of coal or firewood and the use of diesel generators are prohibited in hotels, restaurants and open-air eateries. In addition, parking charges have been increased and bus and metro services have been strengthened to cope with rising pollution levels.

GRAP Phase 3

The implementation of the third phase of “severe” air quality adds tighter restrictions on construction, demolition and industrial operations in the city. In the National Capital Region, it also gives the state government the power to ban the transportation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers.

GRAP Phase 4

If the air quality index rises above 450 (severe+), phase four, currently in place in the capital, will be enforced. This prohibits any truck from entering Delhi unless they are transporting essential goods. Diesel trucks are also banned from driving in the city.

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The use of any diesel four-wheeler, except BS-VI diesel vehicles or emergency vehicles, is prohibited in the area during this phase. Local governments are also allowed to use odd-even technology for private vehicles.