Delhi-NCR implements first stage of air pollution plan
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The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated the first stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR after the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 244 on October 21.
The plan initially restricts the use of coal and firewood in commercial tandoors and limits diesel generator use to emergency situations. Authorities will closely monitor air quality and may intensify measures if pollution worsens, following a tiered system where restrictions become stricter as the AQI rises.
GRAP has four stages, poor, very poor, severe, and severe plus, corresponding to different AQI ranges. The current Stage 1 applies when the AQI is between 201 and 300. Beyond the immediate GRAP-1 measures, the Delhi government announced separate restrictions starting November 1, including a rule denying fuel to vehicles without valid Pollution Under Control Certificates and barring older, more polluting vehicles from entering the city.
The government also plans staggered office timings and increased parking charges to discourage private vehicle use and reduce congestion. Construction activities will also face restrictions, with a complete ban scheduled from December 10 to January 20. Delhi aims to increase its air quality monitoring stations from 47 to 60 and deploy more enforcement teams this winter, recognizing that around 60-65% of pollution comes from areas surrounding the city.
