As air pollution levels continue to deteriorate in Delhi-NCR, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to prevent further worsening of air quality.
The decision follows Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) recording 278 (‘Poor’ category) on May 16, 2025, owing to dust transport triggered by strong surface winds.
What Stage-I GRAP Means for NCR
The 27-point action plan now in effect covers stringent measures aimed at regulating vehicular emissions, controlling dust from construction sites, and intensifying enforcement of environmental rules. Key directives include:
- Stricter enforcement of dust control measures on construction and demolition sites.
- Regular waste collection and disposal to prevent illegal dumping.
- Traffic regulations to curb congestion and pollution in heavily trafficked areas.
- Ban on overaged vehicles to minimize emissions.
- Encouraging citizens to adopt eco-friendly practices such as vehicle maintenance, avoiding firecrackers, and reporting pollution violations through mobile apps.
Call for Public Participation
Authorities emphasize that citizen cooperation is vital to the success of GRAP. Delhiites are urged to follow the guidelines outlined in the Citizen Charter, including reducing vehicle idling time, maintaining proper tyre pressure, and using public transport wherever possible.
Ongoing Monitoring & Next Steps
The CAQM has assured that continuous monitoring of air quality trends will guide future decisions, with a possibility of invoking stricter measures should pollution levels fail to improve. Citizens can track updates on .
