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How Stage III GRAP Actions Affect Delhi's Motorists
The ban on BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel vehicles falls under Stage III of the GRAP action, which comes into effect when the AQI hits the 'severe' mark falling between 401 to 450. Meteorological factors for the forecast days indicate no significant improvement, leading to the indefinite extension of ban.
The restriction applies not only to Delhi but also to the entire National Capital Region (NCR), impacting Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs or 4-wheelers) in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi.
Violation of this rule can result in heavy fines of up to Rs 20,000 according to Section 194(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. It's important to note, however, that these restrictions exempt police vehicles, vehicles used in emergency services, and vehicles deployed for enforcement duties.
Progressive Implementation Of GRAP Stages
In addition to Stage III, the GRAP system also includes Stage I and Stage II, activated progressively depending on the severity of the AQI. Stage I concerns AQI between 201 and 300, categorised as 'poor,' during which over-aged diesel and petrol vehicles are banned.
Stage II comes into force when the AQI falls in the 'very poor' bracket ranging from 301 to 400, and focuses on reducing air pollution at identified hotspots, including regulating the operation of diesel generators. Should the AQI cross 450 (Severe Plus), Stage IV of GRAP would be triggered.
Under this extreme stage, the entry of 4-wheelers registered in other states would be prohibited in Delhi, with exceptions for BS6 vehicles, CNG vehicles, electric vehicles, and vehicles used for essential commodity transit.
Can The Ban On BS3 & BS4 Vehicles Lower Delhi's Pollution Levels?
While this is not the initial implementation of the GRAP system in Delhi, the outright ban of BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel vehicles might not be completely effective in solving Delhi's deep-seated pollution issue.
The city's air quality is influenced by a myriad of factors, including stubble burning, construction activities, vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and open waste burning. Additionally, specific weather conditions and geographic determinants play a substantial role in exacerbating poor air quality.
Addressing Delhi's air pollution problem necessitates a coordinated and multipronged approach. It demands comprehensive planning and stringent enforcement efforts to realise the desired outcome.
As the situation stands, it may take several years to significantly improve Delhi's air quality and make it breathable during winter. Nonetheless, the ban on BS3 and BS4 vehicles is a step in the right direction towards mitigating Delhi’s severe pollution challenge.
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