Delhi-NCR air quality turns ‘very poor’; CAQM invokes Stage II of GRAP
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR as the city’s air quality deteriorated into the “very poor” category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 300 mark.
The decision followed a review by the Sub-Committee on GRAP, which considered current pollution levels and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). Both agencies warned of further worsening in the coming days.
“The AQI of Delhi has shown an increasing trend since morning and has been recorded as 296 at 4 pm and 302 at 7 pm,” the CAQM said, directing authorities to implement all Stage II measures immediately, in addition to Stage I actions already in effect since October 14.
The Centre’s air quality panel also asked implementing agencies to maintain strict monitoring, particularly for dust control, and ensure compliance with timelines specified under the comprehensive policy to curb pollution in the NCR.
Stage II of GRAP includes measures such as daily mechanical or vacuum sweeping and water sprinkling on identified roads, preferably before peak traffic hours, to control dust and reduce airborne particulate matter.