Delhi Activates Revised GRAP as Air Quality Remains ‘Very Poor’

Revised GRAP Measures Activated as Delhi’s Air Quality Remains ‘Very Poor’

Delhi’s pollution levels remained persistently high as authorities activated revised measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to counter the worsening air quality. With the city’s AQI stabilising around 360 , categorised as ‘very poor’, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) rolled out stricter interventions across the National Capital Region (NCR) to curb emissions and manage public health risks.

Higher-Stage Actions Brought Forward

Under the updated framework, several curbs previously assigned to Stage IV (Severe+) have now been moved to Stage III , enabling faster response mechanisms. NCR governments may now consider operating public, private, and municipal offices at 50% capacity , with the remaining employees working from home. A similar decision for central government offices is under review. The shift aims to implement stronger measures proactively, based on pollution forecasts rather than waiting for AQI to deteriorate further.

Restructured Measures Across GRAP Stages

Revisions also repositioned Stage II measures into Stage I , requiring authorities to ensure no power outages to reduce the use of diesel generators, intensify traffic enforcement, and issue daily pollution advisories. Public transport augmentation—through the deployment of additional CNG and electric buses and increased metro frequency—has been prioritised to reduce vehicular congestion. Fare incentives during non-peak hours may also be introduced.

Mobility Management Under Revised GRAP II

Under the redefined Stage II , Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar will implement staggered office timings to reduce peak-hour load. Other NCR districts may adopt similar steps. These measures specifically target transport emissions, which remain a significant contributor to winter smog conditions.

Exam Oriented Facts

• GRAP activates measures based on AQI trends and forecasts.

• Stage IV actions have been shifted to Stage III .

• Delhi’s AQI stayed near 360 (very poor) .

• Public transport strengthening is now part of GRAP Stage I .