Delhi Makes Two Key Pollution Curbs Permanent Under GRAP-IV Action Plan

Delhi’s government has announced permanent new rules to combat severe air pollution. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa made the declaration on Saturday. The measures target vehicles, a major pollution source.

The decision aims to protect residents from recurring poor air quality. According to ANI, the rules are drawn from the existing Graded Response Action Plan stage four. They will remain in effect indefinitely.

Strict New Rules for Vehicles Entering and Refueling in Delhi

One permanent rule denies fuel to vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate. Petrol pumps will now enforce this strictly. This rule was previously active only during severe pollution episodes.

Another rule restricts entry for vehicles from outside Delhi. Those not meeting Bharat Stage VI emission norms will face curbs. This targets older, more polluting vehicles entering the capital.

The city’s air quality recently slipped back into the ‘very poor’ category. The Central Pollution Control Board recorded an AQI of 390. Officials hope these permanent measures will help stabilize pollution levels.

Broader Cabinet Push on Pollution and Environmental Projects

The Delhi Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, approved other key environmental initiatives. A ₹100 crore fund was cleared for reviving the capital’s water bodies. Officials believe restoring these 160 sites will help control local pollution.

Another major project is Delhi’s first E-Waste Park. It will be built on 11.5 acres in Holambi Kalan. The facility promises a zero-waste, circular model with strict pollution controls.

Minister Sirsa stated the e-waste park will be a state-of-the-art national first. It will feature systems to fully recycle and reuse water. The goal is to complete these projects within the year.

Delhi’s move to cement these GRAP-IV restrictions marks a significant shift towards long-term pollution control. The permanent rules signal a tougher stance on major emission sources to safeguard public health.

Thought you’d like to know

What are the two permanent GRAP-IV rules?

The first rule denies fuel to any vehicle without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate. The second restricts entry into Delhi for vehicles from outside that do not meet BS-VI emission standards.

Why is Delhi’s air quality poor right now?

The AQI recently entered the ‘very poor’ category at 390. Thick smog and fog have trapped pollutants close to the ground, reducing visibility and worsening air quality for residents.

What other projects did the Delhi Cabinet approve?

The Cabinet approved a ₹100 crore fund to revive about 160 water bodies. It also greenlit the construction of Delhi’s first major E-Waste Park in Holambi Kalan.

Who is most affected by very poor air quality?

Vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and people with existing respiratory conditions are most at risk. Authorities advise these groups to limit prolonged outdoor exposure.

What is the Commission for Air Quality Management doing?

The CAQM has implemented Stage III measures under GRAP. These include restrictions on construction activities and certain industrial operations to reduce emissions.

Trusted Sources: ANI, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.