Overview
- Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan is now in force across the NCR, triggering a 27-point preventive package on dust control, bans on open burning, and tighter checks on vehicles and industries.
- Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI was around 211 to start the week, and several monitoring sites moved into the 300+ 'very poor' range, including Anand Vihar (around 335–345) and Wazirpur, with spikes reported in Noida and Ghaziabad as well.
- Centre-run forecasting systems (EWS/IMD/IITM) project poor to very poor conditions over the next several days and caution of further deterioration around the Diwali period.
- Source-apportionment by the Decision Support System shows farm-fire smoke contributed only about 0.5–0.6% to PM2.5 during this episode, indicating dominant local sources such as transport, construction and residential fuels.
- Agencies have been told to intensify enforcement and citizens are advised to limit outdoor exertion, wear masks, use public transport, and avoid any open burning as conditions worsen.