SC allows stricter curbs as part of Grap revision

The Supreme Court on Wednesday allowed major revisions to the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) in the National Capital Region as part of short-term measures proposed by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in response to the Capital's winter pollution crisis.

- AbrahamThomasand Jasjeev Gandhiok

The proposed changes shift stricter measures to earlier stages, with some stage 4 advisories (when AQI is above 450) now applying at stage 3 (AQI 401450), stage 3 measures at stage 2 (AQI 301-400), and stage 2 directives at Stage 1 (AQI 201300).

“We are of the view that any proactive action in reducing air pollution would always be welcome. We expect the CAQM, while taking such action, to consult all stakeholders,” said a bench of Chief Justice of India Bhushan R Gavai and justice K Vinod Chandran.

The court also asked CAQM to consider directing schools in Delhi-NCR to postpone open-air sports competitions planned in November and December to “safer months”, keeping in mind air pollution levels, PTI reported.

The specific measures, proposed by the CAQM in a note submitted to the court as shortterm and long-term measures to combat the pollution problem, pertain broadly to office hours and staffing, and power supply. As per the note, when Grap stage 3 is enforced, Delhi-NCR governments will have to take a decision on allowing public, muni pal and private offices to work on 50% strength onsite. Similar decision will need to be taken by central government offices.

A CAQM official clarified that this was advisory in nature and not mandatory to enforce.

Similarly, the CAQM said it proposed to ask Delhi-NCR and central governments to introduce staggered timings for all public offices when stage 2 is invoked, instead of in stage 3.as has been the case.