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Delhi-NCR Activates GRAP Stage III as AQI Enters Severe Range

Regulators acted after the average AQI leapt into the severe zone due to calm winds trapping pollution.

Overview

  • The Commission for Air Quality Management invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan across Delhi-NCR with immediate effect, adding to measures already in place under Stages I and II.
  • Delhi’s average AQI rose from 362 on Monday to about 425 on Tuesday morning, with officials citing calm winds and a stable atmosphere that allowed pollutants to accumulate near the surface.
  • Non-essential construction and demolition activities are now banned across the region, with stone crushers and mining operations ordered to shut.
  • Use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers is restricted in Delhi and specified NCR districts, with exemptions for persons with disabilities.
  • Classes up to Grade 5 are required to shift to a hybrid learning option, and the tighter curbs will remain until air quality shows sustained improvement.