Pollution surge in Delhi-NCR; GRAP-II implemented as AQI hits 324; find out what has been restricted..

With the onset of winter, air quality in the national capital, Delhi, and the entire National Capital Region (NCR) has reached a 'very poor' level. Following a review meeting on November 2, 2026, the GRAP sub-committee of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR, effective immediately. This stringent decision was taken after Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 324.

Air quality in the National Capital Region has deteriorated sharply, with pollution levels reaching a concerning category. Delhi's AQI, which stood at 117 on October 31, 2026, climbed to 261 ('poor') on November 1 due to prevailing weather conditions, and further rose to 324 ('very poor') on November 2. Given the slow wind speeds and the rapid rise in air pollution, the CAQM's GRAP sub-committee convened an emergency review meeting on November 2, 2026. Taking into account forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), the restrictions under GRAP Stage II have been imposed across Delhi-NCR with immediate effect.

Restrictions under GRAP Stage II:

With the implementation of GRAP Stage II, regulations concerning cleaning, construction activities, and the operation of diesel generators have been significantly tightened across the region to control the levels of PM 2.5 and PM 10 particulate matter in the air.

Strict measures on diesel generator sets: Except for essential services—such as those in hospitals, the metro, and railways—the use of diesel generators will be strictly regulated. Only generators running on dual-fuel or biofuels will be permitted. Vacuum sweeping and water sprinkling on roads: Mechanical or vacuum sweeping, along with water sprinkling, will be increased daily across major intersections and roads. Water will be sprayed using anti-smog guns to suppress dust. Ban on tandoors and the use of coal or wood: The use of open tandoors fueled by coal or wood in hotels, dhabas, and restaurants will be prohibited; only electric or gas-based tandoors will be permitted. Increase in parking fees: Parking charges will be raised to discourage the use of private vehicles, encouraging people to rely more on public transport.

Strict directives from the CAQM to all implementing agencies

The CAQM has issued instructions to the relevant civic agencies, traffic police, and pollution control boards of Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. It mandates the strict enforcement of GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) Stage 1 and 2 regulations to prevent the Air Quality Index (AQI) from deteriorating into more severe categories. Furthermore, heavy fines will be imposed on those who violate dust control norms at construction sites or engage in the illegal burning of waste. The Commission is continuously monitoring the situation, and further stringent measures may be implemented depending on air quality levels.

Instructions for the general public

The CAQM has appealed to the residents of Delhi-NCR to cooperate with the government in reducing pollution. Citizens are urged to prioritize the use of the Metro, as well as CNG or electric buses, over private cars or motorcycles. To avoid traffic congestion, residents should utilize navigation apps and ensure that vehicle engines are switched off at red lights. Vehicle air filters should be replaced on time, and PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificates must be kept up to date. Additionally, heaters should be provided for security guards and workers during the winter months to prevent them from burning wood or coal in the open.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from NDTV India. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.