Context : The Supreme Court relaxed stage-IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to stage-II in NCR due to improved Air Quality Index (AQI) levels since November 30.
Relevance : GS 2 (Judiciary), GS 3(Environment)
Key Points
- Relaxation of Restrictions: GRAP-IV scaled down to GRAP-II, with GRAP-III measures ready for AQI levels above 350.
- Hybrid System: Suggested combining GRAP-III and GRAP-II to manage fluctuating AQI levels.
- Special Protocols: Emphasis on countering farm fires and garbage burning, with ISRO’s support.
- Socioeconomic Impact: Acknowledged effects on daily wagers and construction workers under GRAP-IV restrictions.
- Resumption of Physical Classes: DoE issued a circular for reopening schools following eased restrictions.
