CAQM Invokes GRAP Stage III Across Delhi-NCR

The Commission for Air Quality Management invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan across Delhi-NCR on November 6, adding restrictions as Delhi’s air quality reached an Air Quality Index reading of 382, in the very poor category. Measures under Stages I and II remain in force alongside the new curbs. The CAQM’s GRAP subcommittee announced the decision amid worsening pollution ahead of Diwali. The reported citywide AQI remained below the severe category, which begins at 401. The Central Pollution Control Board data cited in reports also showed severe readings at several monitoring stations, including 474 at IIT Delhi and Rohini. Stage III bars BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers from operating in Delhi and specified high-vehicle-density districts: Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar. Vehicles specially adapted for people with disabilities and used for their personal requirements are exempt. The restrictions also cover certain older diesel goods vehicles, with entry limits for some vehicles registered outside Delhi. The plan suspends major dust-generating construction and demolition work across the region, including excavation,...