GRAP-IV imposed, offices to go hybrid in Delhi as AQI slips into severe+ category

Authorities have imposed the strictest anti-pollution restrictions under Stage-IV of the Graded Action Response Plan (GRAP) across the Delhi-NCR after air quality levels slipped into the severe+ category on Saturday, triggering emergency measures to arrest further deterioration. The strictest anti-pollution curbs were imposed hours after GRAP-III restrictions came into effect.

The decision was taken by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) after Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) showed a sharp worsening trend on Saturday.

Official data showed the AQI dipping from 431 at around 4 pm to 441 by 6 pm, prompting concerns that pollution levels could soon breach the "Severe+" threshold.

According to the CAQM, the spike was driven by slow wind speeds, a stable atmosphere, unfavourable meteorological conditions and poor dispersion of pollutants.

Dense toxic smog enveloped Anand Vihar this evening as AQI surged to 488, falling in the ‘severe’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board, raising serious health concerns.

Thick toxic smog covered India Gate and Kartavya Path this evening as air quality plunged to severe levels, with AQI recorded at 407.

In view of the worsening situation, the



CAQM’s Sub-Committee on GRAP invoked all actions prescribed under Stage-IV, the highest level of restrictions, with immediate effect across the entire National Capital Region.

One of the most significant steps under GRAP-IV is a complete ban on construction and demolition activities across Delhi.

Authorities have also ordered the closure of stone crushers, mining operations and associated activities throughout the NCR, as these are considered major contributors to dust and particulate pollution.

Educational institutions have been directed to shift to hybrid learning modes for classes up to Class 5, reducing the exposure of young children to hazardous air.

Schools have been advised to limit physical attendance while continuing academic activities through a mix of online and offline classes.

Transport restrictions have also been tightened. NCR state governments and the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi have been instructed to enforce strict curbs on the movement of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel light motor vehicles (four-wheelers).

These restrictions will apply not only in Delhi but also in key adjoining districts, including Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar.