Pollution is one of the most pressing issues in India, posing significant risks to public health, biodiversity, and the economy. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the legislative framework, innovative measures like the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), and pollution metrics such as the Air Quality Index (AQI) are essential for holistic preparation.

This blog offers an overview of key pollution-related laws, GRAP, and the current state of pollution management, with Delhi as a case study.

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Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): Fighting Pollution One Stage at a Time

Introduced in 2017, GRAP is a dynamic framework aimed at controlling air pollution in Delhi-NCR. It operates as an emergency response mechanism triggered by specific AQI levels, with actions ranging from curbing vehicular emissions to halting construction activities.

Who Implements GRAP?

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) oversees GRAP implementation, collaborating with the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC). A sub-committee, comprising representatives from state pollution boards, CPCB, IMD, and IITM, monitors pollution levels and executes the necessary measures.

Stages of GRAP: Targeted Actions for Every AQI Level

The Air Quality Index (AQI): Your Guide to Pollution Levels

AQI is a critical tool to measure air pollution and communicate associated health risks to the public.

  • Categories: Ranges from Good (0-50) to Severe+ (450+), each associated with specific health advisories.
  • Pollutants Measured: Particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O₃).

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Pollution Laws in India: A Strong Legal Framework

India’s legal framework to combat pollution is robust, encompassing water, air, and environmental protection laws.

1. Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 (Amended 1988)

  • Empowers State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) to regulate industrial effluents.
  • 1988 Amendment: Enabled SPCBs to shut down defaulting industries.

2. Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977

  • Introduced cess for water discharge to fund pollution boards.
  • Industries installing effluent treatment plants receive a 70% cess rebate.

3. Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 (Amended 1987)

  • Regulates industrial and vehicular emissions in Air Pollution Control Areas.
  • 1987 Amendment: Addressed noise pollution and empowered citizens to initiate legal action.

4. Environment (Protection) Act, 1986

  • Enacted post the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, this is a comprehensive legislation to coordinate pollution control activities.
  • Key Features:
    • Defines “environment” broadly, covering air, water, and land.
    • Prohibits discharge of pollutants beyond prescribed limits.
    • Penalizes violations with imprisonment of up to seven years or heavy fines.

5. Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016

  • Regulates plastic production and promotes recycling.
  • Delhi Impact: Visible reduction in plastic waste but enforcement challenges persist.

6. E-Waste Management Rules, 2016

  • Mandates proper disposal and recycling of electronic waste.

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Pollution in Delhi: A Case Study of Crisis and Action

Delhi’s air quality often deteriorates to Severe+, especially in winter, driven by:

  • Stubble Burning: Seasonal fires in Punjab and Haryana.
  • Vehicular Emissions: High density of vehicles running on fossil fuels.
  • Construction Dust: Rapid urbanization adds to particulate pollution.

‍GRAP in Action: Winter 2024

In November 2024, Delhi faced severe air pollution, triggering Stage IV GRAP measures. Odd-even vehicle rules, school closures, and construction bans were implemented. These measures temporarily reduced AQI levels but highlighted the need for long-term interventions.

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Strategic Solutions to Combat Pollution

Short-Term Measures: Quick Actions for Immediate Relief

  • GRAP Implementation: Continuously monitor and execute AQI-based measures.
  • Smog Towers: Deploy air purification systems in critical zones.

Long-Term Strategies: Building a Sustainable Future

  1. Cleaner Fuels: Promote electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered systems.
  2. Sustainable Agriculture: Incentivize alternatives to stubble burning.
  3. Industrial Reforms: Adopt green technologies and renewable energy sources.
  4. Mass Awareness: Encourage eco-friendly practices among citizens.

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Conclusion: A Call to Action

India’s fight against pollution demands stringent laws, technological interventions, and public participation. While GRAP offers immediate relief, achieving sustainable environmental health requires robust implementation of existing laws and innovation in pollution control measures. For UPSC aspirants, understanding these frameworks not only aids exam preparation but also inspires solutions to one of India’s most pressing challenges.

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