Delhi Air Quality Enters Very Poor Category as GRAP Stage II Takes Effect

Delhi’s air quality index rose above 300 on 2 November, entering the “very poor” category for the first time this season. Readings at 7 a.m. stood at 307. The previous day’s 24-hour average had been 261. The Commission for Air Quality Management activated Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan with immediate effect across the National Capital Region.

Stage II measures include restrictions on certain construction activities, enhanced monitoring of industrial emissions, and limits on the use of older diesel vehicles in some areas. The IMD and IITM forecasts indicate that AQI is likely to remain in the very poor range for several days. A thick haze reduced visibility in parts of the city.

Farm fires in neighbouring states continue to contribute to the seasonal deterioration, although local sources such as vehicle exhaust, construction dust and industrial emissions also play a role. Recent light rain had temporarily improved readings, but the improvement did not last. The city recorded a sharp rise from moderate levels earlier in the week.

Authorities have advised residents to limit outdoor activity, especially children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions. Schools in some districts have adjusted outdoor schedules. The GRAP framework is designed to trigger progressively stricter measures as pollution levels rise. Stage II is the second of four stages.

The Central Pollution Control Board data showed the deterioration across multiple monitoring stations. Peak concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were recorded in several locations. Wind patterns have not favoured rapid dispersion of pollutants. Night-time temperatures have also dropped, which can trap emissions closer to the ground.

State governments in the NCR have been directed to enforce the Stage II measures. These include sprinkling of water on roads, mechanical sweeping, and stricter checks on polluting vehicles. Construction sites that do not meet dust-control norms face temporary closures. Open burning is already prohibited.

Long-term data show that November and December are consistently the worst months for Delhi’s air quality. The current episode follows the pattern seen in previous years, although the exact contribution of each source varies with weather and agricultural cycles. Satellite data have been used to track fire counts in Punjab and Haryana.

Public health advisories recommend the use of masks when outdoors and the running of air purifiers indoors where available. Hospitals have reported an increase in respiratory complaints, consistent with the rise in pollution levels. The CAQM statement noted the sharp rise over three days and the forecast of continued very poor conditions.

Further deterioration could trigger Stage III measures, which include more extensive construction bans and restrictions on the entry of certain commercial vehicles. Officials said they would review the situation daily. Residents have been asked to report violations through existing complaint channels.