Delhi AQI reaches 324, CAQM imposes GRAP Stage II curbs across NCR

Delhi’s Air Quality Index reached a daily average of 324 on November 2, placing the city in the very poor category for the first time this season. The Commission for Air Quality Management Sub-Committee met the same day and invoked Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan across the entire National Capital Region with immediate effect.

The rise was sharp. CPCB data show the AQI stood at 117 (moderate) on October 31, climbed to 261 (poor) on November 1, and crossed 300 on the morning of November 2 before settling at 324. Three monitoring stations recorded severe levels by 4 pm: Jahangirpuri at 436, Rohini at 415 and Punjabi Bagh at 413. Of the city’s 58 stations, 37 reported very poor air, 17 poor, three severe and one moderate.

Stage II measures add to the Stage I restrictions already in force. They include tighter controls on construction and demolition activity, restrictions on the use of diesel generator sets, and bans on the use of coal and firewood in hotels, restaurants and tandoors. Parking charges are to be increased to discourage private vehicle use. Mechanical road sweeping and water sprinkling with dust suppressants must be intensified. Non-BS-VI vehicles registered outside Delhi face additional entry and operational limits, with exemptions for CNG and electric vehicles in specified categories.

IMD and IITM forecasts indicate the AQI is likely to remain in the very poor range for the next several days. Unfavourable meteorological conditions—lower wind speeds and falling temperatures—are the main drivers. Stubble burning in surrounding states and residual festive activity add to the baseline load from vehicles and road dust. The current spike follows a brief improvement after recent rain.

The CAQM order notes that all Stage II actions must be implemented in right earnest by agencies across the NCR in addition to Stage I measures. The commission will review the situation regularly. Delhi government and municipal bodies have been directed to enforce the curbs on the ground, including checks on construction sites and generator use.

This marks the earliest very poor reading in recent years for the post-monsoon period. The previous comparable high this calendar year was 339 on February 4. With Diwali approaching, the activation of Stage II is intended to limit further deterioration before the festival. Public transport operations continue, and schools and offices remain open under the current stage, though further escalation remains possible if the AQI approaches 400.

Residents have been advised to reduce outdoor exposure, especially children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions. Real-time station data show the worst pockets concentrated in northwest and west Delhi industrial and traffic corridors. The combination of stagnant air and regional emissions will determine how long the very poor category persists into the first week of November.