Delhi Implements GRAP-1 Anti-Pollution Measures as Air Quality Plummets
Delhi and NCR enter 'poor' air quality zone with AQI at 211, triggering Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) involving strict pollution control and public advisories.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-1) across Delhi-NCR on October 14, 2025, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) deteriorated to 211 — classified as 'poor'. This step marks the start of the capital's annual air pollution season, ahead of the Diwali festival when pollution normally spikes.
Under GRAP-1, extensive measures are enforced to reduce pollution sources, including mechanized road sweeping and water sprinkling, stringent dust suppression in construction zones, banning open garbage burning, and regulating vehicular emissions. Authorities also intensify monitoring and issue health advisories to sensitive groups like children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
The CAQM’s sub-committee will keep reviewing the air quality data and weather forecasts from IMD and IITM to decide on escalation or relaxation of measures. Public compliance with GRAP-1 guidelines is being strongly urged to mitigate the health impacts of the worsening smog.