Delhi Pollution: Why GRAP Stage-I Has Been Imposed Across NCR and What Restrictions Apply

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR as air pollution levels stayed high, despite earlier forecasts indicating an improvement.

The decision followed a detailed review by the CAQM sub-committee on Friday. Officials noted that strong winds had transported dust from distant regions into the capital, worsening air quality. Experts termed this a short-term but concerning pollution episode.

On May 15, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) sharply declined, and by May 16, it was recorded at 278 — classified as ‘Poor’. Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) predict that air quality will likely remain at the lower end of the ‘Poor’ category on May 17.

Key Measures and Restrictions Under GRAP Stage-I

To tackle rising pollution, authorities have activated several precautionary and regulatory steps:

• Mandatory dust control at all construction and demolition sites. Projects over 500 square metres must submit and follow an approved dust management plan.
• Open burning of garbage, leaves, and waste materials is strictly prohibited.
• Use of coal or firewood in roadside eateries and commercial kitchens is banned. Only electricity, LPG, or other clean fuels are permitted.
• Diesel generators are allowed only for emergency or essential services.
• Vehicles visibly emitting smoke can be fined or impounded.
• Traffic police deployment at key intersections, with motorists advised to switch off engines at red lights.
• Continued ban on diesel vehicles over 10 years old and petrol vehicles over 15 years old in Delhi.
• Residents urged to reduce unnecessary travel, prefer public transport, and limit outdoor activities.
• Ban on firecrackers in NCR until January 1, 2025, including production, sale, and storage.
• Polluting industries and thermal power plants within 300 km of Delhi face strict compliance checks.
• Citizens can report violations using the Green Delhi App, SAMEER App, or by dialing 311.

What’s Next?

The CAQM will continue to monitor air quality and weather forecasts on a daily basis. Should pollution levels worsen, stricter measures under Stage-II and beyond will be considered.

All departments have been directed to stay vigilant and proactively enforce measures, following the revised GRAP guidelines issued in December 2024, in compliance with Supreme Court directives.