SC says perennial GRAP is not answer to Delhi air pollution, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court stated that a continuous Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is not a viable solution to Delhi's air pollution.
• The court emphasized the need for a gradual, long-term policy that considers the livelihoods of migrant laborers and daily wagers.
• Amicus curiae suggested that the Groundwater Preservation Act of 2009 contributed to stubble burning.
• The Centre has allocated over ₹2,000 crore to states like Punjab and Haryana for in-situ stubble removal machinery.

Detailed Insights:

• The court acknowledged that implementing GRAP throughout the year would have significant repercussions, affecting the livelihoods of many daily laborers and construction workers.
• Stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and construction debris are major contributors to air pollution in Delhi.
• The Groundwater Preservation Act of 2009 shortened the time between harvesting paddy and sowing wheat, leading farmers to resort to stubble burning.
• Suggestions included advancing the farmers’ schedule for harvesting paddy to mitigate the impact of winds carrying pollutants to Delhi.
• The court noted that the Air Quality Index (AQI) threshold in India is high compared to other countries, allowing higher pollution levels before GRAP is implemented.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): A set of measures to be taken based on the air quality index to combat pollution.
• Air Quality Index (AQI): A metric used to indicate air pollution levels and associated health risks.
• Stubble Burning: The practice of setting fire to crop residue after harvesting, contributing to air pollution.