Delhi-NCR Pollution Alert: GRAP-I Restrictions Introduced to Curb Emissions

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR after air quality deteriorated to the ‘poor’ category on October 21, 2026. The measures aim to control pollution from vehicles, construction activities, road dust, waste burning and other sources before air quality worsens further.

Why in the News?

On October 21, 2026, the CAQM announced the implementation of GRAP Stage I after Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 244 at 2 p.m.

• On October 20, Delhi’s AQI was 179, falling in the moderate category.
• The AQI increased to 244 on October 21, placing it in the poor category.
• Forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) indicated that air quality could remain poor in the following days.
• The CAQM directed district administrations, pollution control boards and municipal bodies to implement the prescribed measures across Delhi-NCR.

What is the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)?

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of emergency measures designed to control air pollution in Delhi-NCR. GRAP aims to control pollution before it reaches more harmful levels rather than waiting for air quality to deteriorate further.

• Objective: To reduce pollution through timely restrictions as air quality deteriorates.
• Implementation: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) oversees its implementation.
• Approval: The framework was approved by the Supreme Court in 2016.
• Graded approach: Restrictions become stricter as pollution levels increase.
• Cumulative implementation: Measures introduced under earlier stages remain in force when a higher stage is implemented.

Four Stages of GRAP

Each stage requires additional measures to control pollution. The actions prescribed under earlier stages continue when a higher stage is imposed.

Key Restrictions Under GRAP Stage I

Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) comes into effect when Delhi-NCR's Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches the 'Poor' category, ranging from 201 to 300. The main aim is to control pollution at an early stage and prevent air quality from deteriorating further. The measures focus on reducing vehicle emissions, construction dust, road dust, and pollution caused by waste burning and fuel use.

1. Vehicular Restrictions

• Diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years are subject to restrictions under the announced measures.
• The measures aim to reduce emissions from older vehicles.

2. Ban on Coal and Wood as Fuel

• The use of coal and wood as fuel is prohibited in roadside eateries and commercial kitchens under the announced restrictions.
• These establishments are required to use electricity, gas-based appliances or other permitted clean fuels.

3. Mechanised Road Sweeping

Periodic mechanised sweeping of roads will be carried out. Water sprinkling will be used to control road dust.

• Collected dust must be disposed of scientifically at designated sites or landfills.

4. Use of Anti-Smog Guns

The use of anti-smog guns and water sprinkling will be intensified at road construction, widening, repair, and maintenance sites.

• Dust suppression measures will be strengthened to reduce particulate matter entering the air.

5. Construction Dust Control

Construction activities without adequate dust-mitigation measures will face restrictions. Water sprinkling will be mandatory at project sites under the announced measures.

• The aim is to reduce dust generated during construction and infrastructure work.

6. Waste Management

Garbage burning must be stopped. Biomedical waste handling protocols will be strengthened.

• Black carbon emission audits for heavy vehicles will be undertaken as part of the announced measures.

7. Restrictions on Diesel Generator Sets

The operation of diesel generator (DG) sets will be regulated across industrial, commercial and residential sectors in NCR.

• The aim is to limit emissions from generator use and encourage compliance with prescribed operating conditions.

Air Quality Index (AQI) in India

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a measure used to communicate air quality and its potential health effects.

• India's national AQI system was developed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
• It classifies air quality according to pollution levels and their possible effects on human health.
• The categories range from good air quality to severe pollution.
• Higher AQI values indicate greater pollution and increasing health risks.

Health Effects of Different Pollution Levels

Prolonged exposure can cause breathing discomfort in most people.

• Very Poor air quality: Prolonged exposure can increase the risk of respiratory illness.
• Severe air quality: Healthy people may also be affected, while people with existing diseases may experience serious health impacts.
• Severe Plus conditions: Indicate an extremely high level of pollution requiring stronger emergency action.

Significance of GRAP

• Pollution control: Provides a structured response to worsening air quality.
• Public health: Seeks to reduce exposure to harmful pollutants.
• Dust management: Addresses road dust and construction-related emissions.
• Vehicular emissions: Targets pollution from older vehicles and diesel generator sets.
• Inter-agency coordination: Requires action by district administrations, municipal bodies and pollution control authorities.

Conclusion

The implementation of GRAP Stage I reflects the need for early action as Delhi-NCR’s air quality deteriorates. Measures targeting vehicle emissions, construction dust, waste burning and other pollution sources aim to prevent further worsening of air quality. Their effectiveness will depend on timely enforcement, coordination among authorities and compliance by residents and businesses.