GRAP-2 curbs kick in as Delhi's air turns 'very poor' ahead of Diwali

AQI WORSENED TO 306

- AIMAN FATIMA

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR, following a significant deterioration in the city's air quality.

By Sunday evening, the air quality index (AQI) had crossed the 300-mark, entering the "very poor" category.

According to CAQM, the AQI in Delhi exhibited a sharp upward trend through the day, recorded at 296 at 4 pm and climbing to 302 by 7 pm. By 10 pm, the AQI worsened to 306, placing the national capital in the red zone of pollution severity. "Authorities are directed to implement all Stage II measures with immediate effect, in addition to the Stage I actions already in place since October 14" the commission said.

The deterioration follows warnings from the Sub-Committee on GRAP, which reviewed pollution forecasts provided by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

Both agencies predicted further worsening in the coming days, particularly after Diwali, with the air quality expected to plunge into the "severe" category on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Stage II of GRAP entails intensified measures to tackle rising pollution. Authorities have been directed to carry out daily mechanical or vacuum road sweeping and water sprinkling on identified roads, preferably before peak traffic hours. Construction and demolition sites face intensified inspections to enforce dust control measures. To promote cleaner mobility, public transport services are being augmented, including the deployment of additional CNG and electric buses, increased metro frequency, and differential fare rates to encourage off-peak travel.