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Delhi-NCR Chokes Under Severe Air Pollution, Authorities Enforce Strict Measures
19 Oct
Summary
- Delhi's air quality slips into "very poor" category, AQI crosses 300
- CAQM invokes Stage II of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
- Intensified actions include mechanical sweeping, water sprinkling, and curbs on construction
On October 18, 2025, the air quality in Delhi-NCR has taken a turn for the worse, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 300 mark and slipping into the "very poor" category. In response to the worsening pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the region.
The decision was made after the CAQM's Sub-Committee reviewed the forecasts provided by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), which warned of further deterioration in the coming days. Under Stage II of GRAP, several intensified actions have been mandated, including daily mechanical or vacuum sweeping and water sprinkling on identified roads, preferably before peak traffic hours, to control dust.
Construction and demolition sites will also face intensified inspections to ensure strict enforcement of dust control measures. To promote cleaner mobility, the GRAP Stage II requires the augmentation of public transport services through additional CNG and electric buses, as well as increased frequency of metro services, along with differential fare rates to encourage off-peak travel.
