Delhi is the only city in India where odd-even has been implemented. As soon as the pollution level in Delhi starts increasing, there is talk of odd-even. How successful odd-even is has been a matter of debate, although some good results have definitely been seen, such as fewer vehicles on the roads, there is also relief from pollution. However, the problems faced by the public due to this have definitely raised some questions about it. Let us understand when, why, and under which rules odd-even is implemented in Delhi.

Delhi government's preparations started

According to IANS, air pollution is a big problem in Delhi and its surrounding areas. This problem becomes more severe, especially during the winter season. The Delhi government has already started preparations to deal with it this year. State Forest and Environment Minister Gopal Rai also held a meeting with experts on Thursday in this regard. When asked about the possibility of implementing the odd-even system for private vehicles, he said that a decision would be taken on this based on the circumstances.

Grape controls air pollution

Measures to control air pollution in Delhi are implemented under the Air Quality Management Plan issued by the Air Quality Management Commission constituted for the National Capital Region and adjoining areas. For this, there are guidelines of the plan named GRAP, which already defines what kind of restrictions will be imposed and what measures will be taken as the pollution level increases. According to the guidelines updated last year, GRAP has four phases.

the first step of grab

The first stage of GRAP is implemented when the Air Quality Index (AQI) is between 201 and 300. The second stage is implemented when the AQI is between 301 and 400 and the third stage is implemented when the AQI is between 401 and 450. If the pollution increases a lot and the AQI crosses 450, then the fourth stage of GRAP is implemented under which the restrictions are the highest and the most stringent.

What happens in the first phase of GRAP

In the first phase, instructions are implemented regarding the management of dust and debris from construction and demolition. There are instructions to stop burning and dumping of garbage in open spaces and to collect garbage regularly. Water is sprinkled on the roads at intervals of a few days to prevent dust from flying. Regular use of diesel generator sets is stopped. PUC rules are strictly implemented and strictness is maintained regarding the smoke emitted from vehicles.

2nd stage of GRAP

In the second phase, the use of diesel generators is banned except in places like hospitals, rail, and metro services. Roads are cleaned and water is sprinkled on them daily. Only proper fuel is used in factories. Parking fees are increased to encourage people to use public transport as much as possible. Inspection at construction sites is increased. People are made aware through advertisements in the media.

GRAP'S THIRD STAGE

In the third phase, the roads are cleaned every day. Water is sprinkled regularly. The dust and debris arising from construction and demolition are disposed of properly. There is a provision to ban the use of petrol-powered BS-3 engines and diesel-powered BS-4 four-wheelers in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar.

4th stage of GRAP

In the fourth phase, heavy vehicles like trucks, loaders, etc. are banned from entering Delhi. Only vehicles carrying essential supplies are allowed entry. All types of construction and demolition work are banned. The state government also decides on online classes for school students and work from home for government and private offices. The decision of odd-even can also be taken in the fourth phase, although it is not necessary, but the state government has been given the power to do so.