The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR on October 21 after Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) entered the ‘poor’ category. The order requires agencies across the National Capital Region to implement and monitor pollution-control steps aimed at preventing air quality from deteriorating further.
What triggered GRAP Stage I?
According to the CAQM’s reported update, Delhi’s AQI rose from 179, classified as ‘moderate’ on October 20, to 244 at 2 pm on October 21. Under India’s AQI scale, a reading from 201 to 300 falls in the poor category. Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology indicated that conditions could remain poor in the following days.
What measures apply under GRAP Stage I?
Stage I focuses on enforcing existing pollution-control rules and reducing avoidable emissions. Measures include stronger dust-mitigation practices at construction and demolition sites, mechanised sweeping and water sprinkling on roads where required, preventing the open burning of waste, and ensuring regular collection of municipal and construction waste. Agencies are expected to inspect sites and monitor compliance.
Stage I is the first level of GRAP and does not automatically mean that all schools must close or that all vehicles are banned. More restrictive measures are associated with higher pollution stages and separate official orders. Residents should check CAQM announcements for any changes instead of relying on viral messages that describe restrictions inaccurately.
How can residents reduce exposure?
People sensitive to air pollution—including children, older adults and those with respiratory or heart conditions—can check local AQI readings before extended outdoor activity. When pollution is high, consider reducing strenuous outdoor exercise and following advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Keeping indoor spaces as free from smoke as practical and avoiding the burning of waste can also help reduce exposure.
Will restrictions become stricter?
CAQM reviews air-quality trends and forecasts and may strengthen or ease measures depending on conditions. The effectiveness of the response depends on coordinated enforcement across Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan areas included in the NCR, as well as cooperation from residents and businesses.
The latest official order and live AQI readings remain the best sources for current restrictions. InfoFlick will update this report if CAQM moves to another GRAP stage or issues additional directions.
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