Delhi’s air quality remained in the “very poor” category on Saturday, prompting authorities to introduce select Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 4 measures while the city is still officially under GRAP Stage 3. The decision was announced by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) as the national capital recorded an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 360 on Saturday morning.
The CAQM said the move aligns with the Supreme Court’s observation on November 19, which urged proactive steps — based on consultation with key stakeholders — to prevent further deterioration of air quality across Delhi-NCR.
GRAP Stage 4 Measures Introduced Under Stage 3
According to CAQM, the following measures, normally part of GRAP Stage 4, will now be implemented under Stage 3:
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NCR state governments and the Delhi government may direct public, private, and municipal offices to operate at 50% capacity, with the remaining staff working from home.
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The Central government may consider a similar work-from-home arrangement for central government offices.
These steps aim to reduce vehicular emissions, which contribute significantly to the worsening pollution levels during winter.
Delhi Air Quality Expected to Enter ‘Severe’ Zone
The Air Quality Early Warning System, under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, has forecast that Delhi’s air quality may slip into the “severe” category and remain in the “very poor” to “severe” range over the next six days. Stagnant winds and winter inversion are expected to trap pollutants closer to the surface, further degrading air quality.
By 10am on Saturday, Delhi’s 24-hour rolling average AQI was 361, only slightly lower than the 364 recorded on Friday evening, yet still close to the “severe” threshold.
Restrictions Already in Place Under GRAP Stage 3
With GRAP Stage 3 currently active, Delhi has already enforced:
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A ban on non-essential construction and demolition activities
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Restrictions on vehicles not meeting Bharat Stage (BS)-IV emission norms
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Strict monitoring of dust-generating activities
Residents have been advised to limit outdoor movement, particularly during early mornings and late evenings, when pollution levels typically spike.
In addition, the Delhi government on Friday directed schools and educational institutions to suspend all outdoor sports and physical activities until air quality improves.
