Delhi's Air Quality Deteriorates, Second Stage of Graded Response Action Plan Implemented

Strategic Insights -

Delhi's air quality has been worsening over the past week, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 296, categorizing it as 'poor' on Sunday. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced that the second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will come into effect immediately to prevent further deterioration of air quality. The AQI has been on an upward trend, with 23 out of 38 stations in the 'very poor' range at 9 pm, and Anand Vihar in the severe category.

Key Takeaways:

  • The second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will be implemented in the entire National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect to control air pollution.
  • Delhi's 24-hour average AQI was recorded at 296, categorizing it as 'poor' on Sunday, with AQI above 300 considered 'very poor' and above 400 severe.
  • 23 out of 38 stations in Delhi had AQI in the 'very poor' range at 9 pm, with Anand Vihar in the severe category.
  • The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has called for citizens to adhere to specific steps listed in the Citizen Charter of Stage-II along with Stage-I of GRAP to help improve air quality.
  • The CAQM has urged citizens to use public transport, minimize the use of personal vehicles, and avoid dust-generating construction activities.
  • Civic agencies have been asked to hike parking charges to discourage the use of personal vehicles, and restrictions have been placed on the use of portable diesel generators.

Statistics:

  • Delhi's 24-hour average AQI was recorded at 296 on Sunday.
  • The AQI was in the poor category overall, but 23 out of 38 stations in Delhi had AQI in the 'very poor' range at 9 pm.
  • The hourly average AQI in Delhi rose to 300 at 6 pm and further rose to 302 at 7 pm.
  • Anand Vihar in Delhi had AQI in the severe category.

Sources:

  • The Indian Express (P) Ltd. 2025 IE Online Media Services Pvt. Ltd., distributed by Contify.com
  • Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
  • Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
  • Citizen Charter of Stage-II of GRAP