News Brief
Centre Enforces GRAP Stage II In Delhi-NCR As Air Quality Nears ‘Very Poor’ Ahead Of Diwali
Delhi deteriorating air quality
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Sunday (19 October) invoked Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR, anticipating a sharp deterioration in air quality ahead of Diwali.
The decision came as pollution levels edged close to the “very poor” mark, driven by unfavourable weather conditions and expected firecracker emissions.
“The AQI of Delhi has shown an increasing trend since morning and has been recorded as 296 at 4:00 PM and 302 at 7:00 PM. The forecast by IMD/IITM also predicts further deterioration of AQI in coming days,” the CAQM said in a statement.
The agency added that “the Sub-Committee, accordingly decides to invoke all actions under Stage-II ('Very Poor' Air Quality) of the extant GRAP in the entire NCR, with immediate effect, in addition to the Stage-I actions already in force.”
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 296 in Delhi on Sunday evening, nearly at the “very poor” threshold. Noida and Ghaziabad registered “very poor” levels, while Faridabad’s air quality remained “moderate.”
Local bodies have also been directed to intensify road water sprinkling, dust suppression, and inspection of construction sites to curb emissions.
Residents have been urged to reduce personal vehicle use, opt for public transport, and avoid open waste burning.
The restrictions come as Delhi continues to reel under “poor” air quality for the sixth consecutive day, with forecasts warning of worsening conditions through the festival week.
