Due to deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR, the government has implemented GRAP-1 (Graded Response Action Plan Stage-1), so keep in mind that some small carelessness can now prove costly and if necessary, the police can also take strict action. First of all, completely stop burning garbage or leaves in the open at home, open burning increases pollution rapidly and in such cases the local administration is taking immediate action.

Take these precautions while repairing or constructing a house

Dust control is also needed on activities like home repair or painting. Keep the construction site covered and sprinkle water, otherwise the municipal team or RWA can issue challan. In case of vehicles, do not leave the vehicle running and keep the PUC updated. Vehicles emitting black smoke on the road are being caught immediately and old highly polluted vehicles may face challan or even confiscation. Also, during GRAP-1, there may be a ban on entry of non-essential heavy goods vehicles, hence the possibility of checking and fines at border posts increases. Apart from this, crackdown can be imposed on diesel commercial vehicles and hefty challan may come home.

A report can be filed for these mistakes!

As soon as GRAP-1 is implemented, Delhi Government, Municipal Corporation, Traffic Police and DPCC (Delhi Pollution Control Committee) all come into action mode. This means that now the monitoring team keeps patrolling the roads, markets and colonies continuously. If dust is seen, garbage is burnt, or an old diesel vehicle is caught, an immediate challan and report is filed.

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Take these precautions

After all, it is not just a violation of rules but also a health issue. Sensitive groups like children, elderly and asthma/lung patients should go out less and use N95/KN95 masks if necessary. Adopt public transport or carpooling as a routine, dispose of garbage through proper channels instead of open burning at home and check the air condition through AQI app daily so that you can take precautions in time.

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