Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a severe level of 425 at 9 a.m. today, prompting authorities to enforce stricter pollution controls. In response to the worsening air quality, the Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) under the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage-III measures across the National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect. The decision follows a review of Delhi’s air pollution trends, driven by calm winds, a stable atmosphere, and unfavourable meteorological conditions that have allowed pollutants to accumulate. The Stage-III or “Severe” category, applicable when the AQI ranges between 401 and 450, adds to the restrictions already in place under Stages I and II. Pollution Control Boards across NCR, including the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), have been instructed to ensure strict implementation of the nine-point Stage-III action plan. Key measures include: Suspension of major construction and demolition activities such as excavation, piling, roadworks, and the operation of ready-mix concrete plants. Only essential projects—such as railways, metro works, hospitals, and national security infrastructure—are permitted to continue under strict dust control norms. Closure of stone crushers, mining, and related operations across NCR. Banning BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi and nearby districts including Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddh Nagar, except for vehicles used by persons with disabilities. Restrictions on diesel goods vehicles registered in Delhi or outside, with exemptions for those carrying essential goods or providing critical services. Hybrid learning for schools up to Class V, allowing classes to continue online or in person, depending on feasibility. Staggered office timings for public and municipal offices across Delhi and NCR to reduce peak-hour congestion and emissions. The CAQM has also urged citizens to cooperate with authorities by following the GRAP Citizen Charter, which encourages residents to use public transport, avoid short car trips, refrain from burning wood or biomass, and enable work-from-home arrangements where possible. Officials will continue to monitor air quality trends and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) to decide on further measures. Complete details of the GRAP schedule are available on the CAQM’s official website.