Pimpri: Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has launched the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat air pollution in the city. This structured initiative combines real-time monitoring, advanced forecasting, and stringent enforcement to ensure the city’s air quality is systematically improved. The launch of GRAP with robust technology powered by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), PCMC has prepared a strategy to forecast, monitor, and act upon air quality challenges proactively. 

PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh on GRAP said, “The launch of GRAP is a milestone in PCMC’s journey toward a pollution-free environment. With advanced technology, real-time monitoring, and community participation, we aim to protect the health of our citizens while fostering sustainable development. This initiative is designed to tackle pollution systematically, and I urge all stakeholders to join hands in making this mission successful.” 

Chief Engineer of PCMC, Sanjay Kulkarni, highlighting the city’s enhanced capabilities, said, “GRAP integrates cutting-edge technology with on-ground enforcement, ensuring effective action against pollution sources. This initiative is proof to PCMC’s commitment to sustainable development and robust urban governance.” 

Notably, under the National Clean Air Program (NCAP), PCMC has installed air purifier systems, movable and stationary fog cannon suppression systems, road washers and atomizer-based water fountains across the municipal limits.

Comprehensive Monitoring and Forecasting Systems 

GRAP’s structured approach relies on advanced forecasting tools and rigorous monitoring mechanisms to ensure timely action: 

1. Advanced Air Quality Forecasting Actions under GRAP Phases II, III, and IV will be triggered 3 days in advance based on air quality predictions as per the C-DAC decision support system (DSS). These measures will be implemented for a minimum of 15 days or until a significant improvement in AQI is observed. Forecasting enhanced by PCMC’s collaboration with C-DAC, focuses on pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, NOx, and SOx across all city wards. 

2. Rigorous Monitoring Mechanisms of Vehicular Pollution: ANPR cameras and on-ground personnel will track Emission Control Compliance (ECC) through a system integrated with RTO and Traffic Police databases. 

3. Industrial and Construction Pollution: A surveillance agency, with 32 field staff across eight wards, has been deployed for 24/7 monitoring of violations. 

Phase-Wise Action Plan GRAP outlines a clear, escalating framework of actions based on AQI levels: 

Phase 1 (AQI 101-300): Focuses on controlling road dust, restricting illegal waste dumping, and improving traffic management. 

Phase 2 (AQI 301-400): Includes restrictions on diesel generators, enhanced road cleaning, and promotion of public transport. 

Phase 3 (AQI 401-500): Shut down highly polluting industries, create non-motorized zones, and impose stricter fines for violations. 

Phase 4 (AQI 500+): Implements vehicle bans, potential school closures, and stringent penalties to curb pollution.

PCMC strengthens monitoring with 24x7 enforcement for environmental violations

PCMC has introduced robust measures to tackle environmental pollution as part of the GRAP. A dedicated enforcement agency has been engaged to conduct 24x7 surveillance, vigilance, and patrolling to monitor and curb various types of waste-related and environmental violations.

The team comprises 39 personnel, including 1 project manager, 4 supervisors, 2 data entry operators, and 32 on-field staff.

The field team will patrol the city 24x7 using clean fuel vehicles provided by the agency.

Why is GRAP Important?

Proactive Air Quality Management: GRAP ensures that measures are activated in advance based on AQI forecasts, mitigating pollution risks effectively.

Structured Approach: It provides a phased response plan tailored to different levels of air pollution, from moderate to severe.

Protects Public Health: GRAP directly tackles major pollution sources, reducing health risks associated with poor air quality.

Improves Urban Livability: With stringent enforcement and community involvement, GRAP enhances the overall quality of life for citizens.

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