Delhi-NCR pollution alert: GRAP-1 imposed as AQI rises to 244
New Delhi: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Wednesday imposed Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR after the national capital’s Air Quality Index (AQI) rose sharply to 244, placing it in the ‘poor’ category. The AQI stood at 179 on October 20 before climbing to 244 by 2 pm on October 21.
The CAQM directed agencies across the National Capital Region to implement the measures immediately and closely monitor pollution levels to prevent further deterioration. Forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) indicate that air quality is likely to remain in the ‘poor’ category over the coming days.
GRAP is an emergency response mechanism under which authorities introduce progressively stricter measures depending on pollution levels. Stage I applies when the AQI is between 201 and 300. The latest order requires agencies across Delhi and the NCR to strengthen existing pollution-control measures.
What changes under GRAP Stage I?
Under the first stage, authorities will intensify dust-control measures at construction and demolition sites and enforce existing rules more strictly. Activities that generate dust must comply with prescribed mitigation requirements. Agencies have also been directed to increase the regular lifting of municipal solid waste, conduct periodic mechanised road sweeping and sprinkle water on roads to reduce airborne dust.
The collected dust must be disposed of scientifically at designated sites. Authorities have also been asked to prevent open waste burning, regulate traffic where necessary and penalise visibly polluting vehicles. Environmental compensation can be imposed for violations of applicable pollution-control rules.
The measures are aimed at controlling pollution at its source rather than shutting down normal activities across the capital. Stage I does not, by itself, impose a blanket ban on private vehicles or all construction work. However, construction and demolition activities must follow the applicable dust-control requirements, and violations can attract enforcement action.
The CAQM has directed all implementing agencies to maintain strict surveillance and ensure that the measures are followed across the region. Residents have also been urged to comply with the citizen charter under GRAP Stage I.
Why is Delhi’s pollution worsening?
The rise in pollution comes as Delhi enters the period when air quality generally deteriorates ahead of winter. Falling temperatures, slower wind speeds and unfavourable atmospheric conditions can trap pollutants close to the ground. Emissions from vehicles, construction activities, industries and waste burning add to the pollution load, while stubble burning in neighbouring states can further contribute to the seasonal problem.
The increase from an AQI of 179 on October 20 to 244 the following afternoon marks a shift from the ‘moderate’ to the ‘poor’ category. With weather forecasts suggesting that poor air quality could persist, authorities have activated the first stage of the response plan to limit further deterioration.
Delhi is also preparing for the wider winter pollution-control drive, with measures targeting vehicle emissions, road dust and other local sources of pollution. These broader initiatives are separate from the GRAP restrictions now in force.