Daily Current Affairs : 23-October-2023
Recently, Delhi, the capital city of India, experienced a drastic decline in air quality, plunging into the “very poor” category, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board. This concerning situation is expected to persist for the next few days, raising alarm bells about the city’s deteriorating air.
Understanding Air Quality Index (AQI): A Crucial Communication Tool
- The Air Quality Index (AQI) serves as a vital tool to convey air quality conditions in a simple and comprehensible manner to the public.
- Launched in 2014 by the Minister for Environment, Forests & Climate Change, the National Air Quality Index (AQI) emerged as part of the Swachh Bharat Mission initiatives.
- AQI aids both the public and government in comprehending the gravity of air pollution, guiding them on necessary actions to combat the situation based on its severity.
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): A Crucial Initiative
- The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) activated Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in anticipation of worsening air quality.
- GRAP comprises emergency measures designed to mitigate air pollution, ensuring a swift response to the deteriorating air quality.
- Authorities in the National Capital Region (NCR) have implemented various strategies, including raising parking fees and enhancing the availability of CNG/electric buses and metro services. These steps aim to discourage private vehicle usage, thereby reducing emissions.
Delhi Government’s Winter Action Plan: A Multifaceted Approach
- The Delhi government introduced a comprehensive 15-point Winter Action Plan, emphasizing the need to curb air pollution during the colder months.
- The plan includes a ban on the sale, manufacturing, storage, and bursting of firecrackers, a significant source of air pollution during festive seasons.
- Additionally, efforts are underway to augment the services of eco-friendly modes of transportation, such as electric buses and metro trains, promoting a shift away from polluting vehicles.
Important Points:
- Delhi’s air quality recently slipped into the “very poor” category, raising concerns about deteriorating air conditions.
- The Air Quality Index (AQI) serves as a vital tool for conveying air quality information to the public in a simple and understandable manner.
- Launched in 2014 under the Swachh Bharat Mission initiatives, the National Air Quality Index (AQI) helps both the public and the government comprehend the gravity of air pollution and take necessary actions based on its severity.
- The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was activated by the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) in response to the prediction of worsening air quality in Delhi.
- GRAP comprises emergency measures, including raising parking fees and enhancing the availability of eco-friendly transportation options like CNG/electric buses and metro services, aimed at discouraging private vehicle usage and reducing emissions.
- The Delhi government introduced a 15-point Winter Action Plan, which includes a ban on the sale, manufacturing, storage, and bursting of firecrackers, a significant source of air pollution during festive seasons.
- Efforts are underway to augment the services of eco-friendly modes of transportation, such as electric buses and metro trains, promoting a shift away from polluting vehicles.
- Urgent and collective action is imperative, and implementing and adhering to initiatives like AQI, GRAP, and the Winter Action Plan can significantly contribute to improving Delhi’s air quality.
- Raising public awareness and encouraging eco-friendly practices are essential in the collaborative efforts needed to achieve cleaner air in Delhi.
- Effective collaboration between the government, local authorities, and citizens is crucial to prioritize the cause of cleaner air for a sustainable future.
Why In News
According to a Central Pollution Control Board bulletin, on Sunday, Delhi’s air quality deteriorated, slipping into the “very poor” category, and it is anticipated to persist at this level for the next three days, posing significant health risks to the residents.
MCQs about Clearing the Air: Delhi’s Path to Improved Air Quality
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What is the primary purpose of the Air Quality Index (AQI) ?
A. To confuse the public about air quality
B. To facilitate effective communication of air quality status
C. To measure the number of vehicles on the road
D. To promote private vehicle usage
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Which plan includes measures such as raising parking fees and promoting eco-friendly transportation to combat air pollution in Delhi?
A. National Transportation Plan
B. Delhi Development Blueprint
C. Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
D. Delhi Air Pollution Eradication Scheme
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What step did the Delhi government take to curb air pollution during the winter months?
A. Launched a campaign to promote firecracker usage
B. Implemented a ban on electric vehicles
C. Introduced a 15-point Winter Action Plan
D. Encouraged private vehicle usage
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What is emphasized as crucial in the essay to achieve cleaner air in Delhi?
A. Encouraging private vehicle usage
B. Implementing GRAP alone
C. Raising public awareness and encouraging eco-friendly practices
D. Ignoring the role of citizens in air quality improvement
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