Sub-Committee for GRAP Urges Urgent Action for Dust Abatement Measures in Delhi-NCR

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 16th May. Delhi’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 243 (‘Poor’ category) as per the Daily AQI Bulletin released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). In response to the recent deterioration in air quality, the Sub-Committee for invoking actions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR & Adjoining Areas (CAQM) convened to address the current air quality scenario of Delhi-NCR.

During the review, it was noted that changing wind patterns, coupled with dry conditions and high temperatures, have led to the persistent suspension of dust particles over the National Capital Region (NCR). Additionally, increased instances of agricultural residue burning and forest fires in neighboring states have further exacerbated the air quality situation in Delhi-NCR.

The Sub-Committee for GRAP issued urgent directives to the concerned Pollution Control Boards (PCBs)/Committee of NCR and relevant stakeholders/agencies, including:

• Conducting intensive drives at major pollution hotspots to focus on dust abatement measures and their monitoring.
• Increasing the number/frequency of water sprinklers and mechanical road sweeping equipment in the region.
• Monitoring and preventing instances of fire and open burning of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) in and around NCR.
• Strengthening Dust Control & Management Cells (DCMCs) in Road Owning Agencies to oversee road construction/maintenance projects and ensure compliance with prescribed measures.
• Intensifying enforcement mechanisms for dust control measures at Construction & Demolition (C&D) project sites.
• Stepping up inspections by CPCB Flying Squads to take appropriate action against sites/projects violating statutory directions.

The Sub-Committee emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among all concerned agencies to improve Delhi’s overall AQI in the coming days. Regular reviews of the air quality situation in Delhi-NCR will be conducted, with the Sub-Committee closely monitoring developments and taking necessary actions accordingly.