Delhi has activated Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as air quality in the city deteriorates ahead of Diwali. The city&rsquo;s Air Quality Index (AQI) has slipped into the &lsquo;poor&rsquo; category, registering 211, prompting authorities to implement measures aimed at controlling pollution levels and safeguarding public health.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has outlined a series of restrictions under GRAP-1 to reduce emissions and particulate matter. Construction and demolition sites are required to implement mandatory dust suppression, while the burning of garbage, leaves, and other waste materials is strictly prohibited. The use of diesel generators has been restricted to essential services only, and eateries must adopt cleaner fuels such as electricity or gas, avoiding coal and firewood. Additionally, roads will see enhanced cleaning, including mechanical sweeping and water sprinkling, to keep dust levels under control.
These steps come in anticipation of the festive season, a period when air pollution traditionally spikes due to increased vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and firecracker use. Officials have emphasized that the GRAP-1 measures are preventive and crucial to minimizing the health impact of rising pollution, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
With Diwali approaching, the implementation of GRAP-1 reflects Delhi&rsquo;s efforts to balance celebratory traditions with public health imperatives, aiming to curb pollution before it escalates to more hazardous levels.

Delhi activates GRAP-1 as air quality worsens

Stage-I measures enforced ahead of Diwali to curb pollution and protect public health

Delhi activates GRAP-1 as air quality worsens

Stage-I measures enforced ahead of Diwali to curb pollution and protect public health

October 14, 2025 | 19:05 IST