CAQM Enforces Stage-I GRAP as Delhi AQI Dips to 'Poor'

07 Apr 2025 CW Team

With Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 217—categorised as ‘Poor’—the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the entire National Capital Region (NCR). This move triggers a 27-point action plan aimed at curbing pollution levels.

The decision, taken by the GRAP Sub-Committee, follows an increasing trend in AQI and forecasts by IMD/IITM that suggest the poor air quality will persist. As per protocol, measures outlined under Stage-I are being implemented with immediate effect and all enforcement agencies—including Pollution Control Boards of NCR states and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC)—have been directed to act swiftly.

Key actions:

Enforcing dust control norms at construction sites.
Regular mechanical road sweeping and water sprinkling.
Crackdown on open burning of waste and landfill fires.
Enforcement against over-aged and visibly polluting vehicles.
Strict industrial emissions monitoring and fuel usage compliance.
Ensuring non-use of diesel generators as regular power supply.
Promoting EVs and hybrid vehicles to control vehicular pollution.
Active use of anti-smog guns and dust suppression in infrastructure projects.

Public advisory: Residents are urged to maintain PUC certificates, avoid unnecessary vehicle idling, prefer clean-fuel vehicles, avoid firecrackers, and report violations via 311 App, SAMEER App, and Green Delhi App.

CAQM will continue monitoring the air quality scenario and may upgrade the GRAP stage based on real-time assessments and forecasts.

(PIB)

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