The Delhi government has taken strict measures to combat pollution and smog in the city by implementing GRAP Stage III, which includes a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles. This comes as part of India's efforts to adopt Bharat Stage VI emission norms by 2020 and reduce air pollutants by 80%. The move aims to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment for the citizens of Delhi.
Delhi's War on Air Pollution: Implementation of GRAP Stage III and Bharat Stage Norms
Background
Air pollution has emerged as a significant problem in various cities across the world, including Delhi, India. The city has been grappling with alarming levels of air pollution, primarily caused by factors such as vehicular emissions, construction activities, and stubble burning in neighboring states. To combat this issue, the Delhi government has implemented various measures over the years.
GRAP Stage III Measures
In November 2022, the Delhi government declared a "severe" air quality status and invoked Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage III. This measure aims to curb air pollution by implementing a series of restrictions and actions:
Adoption of Bharat Stage VI Emission Norms
In addition to GRAP Stage III, the Delhi government is also working towards adopting Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission norms. BS-VI norms are more stringent vehicle emission standards designed to reduce air pollutants such as particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and hydrocarbons (HC). India plans to fully implement BS-VI norms by 2020.
Aim and Impact
The implementation of GRAP Stage III measures and the adoption of BS-VI norms are aimed at reducing air pollutants by 80%. These measures are expected to contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment for the citizens of Delhi.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is GRAP Stage III? GRAP Stage III is a set of emergency measures implemented in Delhi to combat severe air pollution.
2. What are the restrictions under GRAP Stage III? GRAP Stage III includes a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles, closure of schools and colleges, and restrictions on construction activities.
3. What are Bharat Stage VI emission norms? BS-VI norms are stringent vehicle emission standards designed to reduce air pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons.
4. When will India adopt BS-VI norms? India plans to fully adopt BS-VI norms by 2020.
5. How do GRAP Stage III and BS-VI norms contribute to air quality improvement? These measures aim to reduce air pollutants by 80%, resulting in a cleaner and healthier environment for Delhi citizens.
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