How effective is Delhi's Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)?

A recent study indicates GRAP significantly improves Delhi-NCR's air quality and public health.

What are the benefits of GRAP for Delhi's air quality?

GRAP interventions reduce PM2.5 levels and can prevent hundreds of short-term deaths.

What happens to Delhi's air quality without GRAP?

Without GRAP, Delhi could face 60% more severe pollution hours and significantly worse air quality.

Home / Environment / Delhi's Air Quality Plan: A Lifesaver Revealed

Delhi's Air Quality Plan: A Lifesaver Revealed

5 Jan

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Summary

GRAP study shows significant air quality improvement in Delhi-NCR.
Without GRAP, Delhi could face 60% more severe pollution hours.
GRAP interventions potentially saved 177-297 short-term lives.

Delhi's Air Quality Plan: A Lifesaver Revealed

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), implemented in Delhi-NCR during high pollution periods, has proven effective in improving air quality, according to a recent study. This 'mini-lockdown' strategy, triggered by dangerous Air Quality Index levels, aims to curb pollution-causing activities despite causing some public inconvenience.

The research indicates that without GRAP, Delhi could face a 60% increase in severe AQI hours and a 60%-200% rise in severe-plus pollution episodes. The plan's measures have demonstrably reduced PM2.5 levels, with potential savings of 177-297 short-term lives and 8,615-14,456 years of life preserved.

Experts underscore that while GRAP may disrupt daily life, its public health benefits are substantial. The study emphasizes GRAP as a vital tool for mitigating air pollution, underscoring the ongoing need for its enforcement and public cooperation to safeguard health in the Delhi-NCR region.