CAQM Imposes GRAP Stage 3 in Delhi-NCR as AQI Nears Severe Ahead of Diwali

The Commission for Air Quality Management imposed Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan across Delhi and the National Capital Region on Friday after the city's air quality moved closer to the severe category.

Delhi's average AQI stood at 382 to 391 according to Central Pollution Control Board data. Thirty of 59 monitoring stations recorded severe readings at one point. Stations including Punjabi Bagh, Rohini and Jahangirpuri reported figures above 440. Stage 3 measures add to restrictions already in force under Stages 1 and 2.

The new rules ban non-essential construction and demolition across the NCR, including earthwork, piling, trenching and brickwork. Stone crushers, mining and hot-mix plants that do not use clean fuels must shut. BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel light motor vehicles are barred from roads in Delhi and the districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar. Inter-state diesel buses that fail BS-VI standards face entry restrictions. Classes up to grade 5 shift to hybrid mode in several districts. Private firms are advised to allow work-from-home arrangements.

The measures arrive two days before Diwali. Authorities have increased public transport capacity and deployed anti-smog guns. Stage 3 is normally triggered when AQI reaches 401-450. Officials described the decision as precautionary given forecasts of further deterioration during the festival. Exempted activities include railways, metro, airports, hospitals, highways and power transmission.

Delhi's air quality has worsened through the night as winds fell still and a warm layer held pollutants near the surface. Farm fires in neighbouring states continue to contribute. The restrictions will remain until air quality improves enough for the sub-committee to revoke them. Residents face tighter limits on vehicle use and outdoor construction at the same time as the annual festival period increases emissions from fireworks and traffic.