CAQM revises GRAP rules for Delhi-NCR, tightens vehicle and construction curbs
The CAQM has modified the Graded Response Action Plan for Delhi-NCR, extending older vehicle curbs to Sonipat, moving some bus restrictions to GRAP-1, and expanding construction norms.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has revised the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for Delhi-NCR, introducing changes to vehicle and construction restrictions under the air pollution emergency framework.
Under the modified rules, curbs on older vehicles will now extend to Sonipat. Previously, such restrictions applied to specified areas within the National Capital Region; the revision brings Sonipat within the ambit of these measures.
Some restrictions on buses have been moved to the GRAP-1 stage. This means that certain bus-related curbs will now kick in at the lowest rung of the graded action plan, rather than at a later, more severe stage.
The CAQM has also removed exemptions that were earlier available to certain categories of goods vehicles. These exemptions had allowed select goods carriers to operate despite the broader restrictions; their removal is expected to widen the scope of enforcement.
In addition, construction norms under GRAP have been expanded. The revised framework broadens the rules governing construction activities across the region.
The changes are part of the periodic review and tightening of the GRAP framework, which prescribes escalating anti-pollution measures for Delhi-NCR based on air quality levels. The revised provisions aim to streamline restrictions across different stages of the plan and bring additional areas and vehicle categories under its purview.