As the air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) slipped into the ‘Poor’ category, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage One of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to prevent further deterioration. The decision came after Delhi recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 211, prompting immediate preventive measures across the region.
The CAQM Sub-Committee on Air Quality, which reviewed real-time pollution data and weather forecasts, announced that a 27-point action plan under Stage One would be implemented with immediate effect. These measures are intended to reduce particulate matter emissions and minimise dust, vehicular, and industrial pollution during the early stages of the winter pollution season.
According to officials, the action plan includes stringent enforcement of dust control at all construction and demolition sites, regular mechanised road sweeping, water sprinkling on major roads, and a complete ban on the open burning of waste. The use of coal and firewood in eateries has also been restricted to reduce localised emissions.
Authorities have been directed to ensure that power back-up sources comply with green norms, discouraging the use of diesel generators except in emergencies. Municipal bodies have been asked to step up cleaning drives and monitor unauthorised construction activity, which remains a major contributor to particulate matter in the city.
Our correspondent reports that the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), along with pollution control boards of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, has been tasked with enforcing compliance across NCR districts. Regular field inspections, strict penalties, and monitoring through remote sensing systems have been mandated to ensure that violators are identified promptly.
Citizens have been urged to play an active role in combating air pollution. The CAQM advisory recommends keeping vehicles well maintained, avoiding idling at traffic signals, and opting for public transport, carpooling, or electric vehicles whenever possible. Awareness drives are also being intensified to encourage residents to report polluting activities through official mobile applications.
Our correspondent adds that the Sub-Committee will continue to monitor daily air quality reports issued by the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology. Depending on pollutant levels and meteorological patterns, stricter restrictions under Stage Two may be imposed if conditions worsen in the coming days.
Environmental experts have stated that such early action is essential as meteorological conditions during October often lead to higher pollutant accumulation due to calm winds and temperature inversion. The situation is expected to worsen with the onset of winter, when emissions from vehicles, construction, stubble burning, and festive activities combine to raise pollution levels.
Authorities have also initiated coordination with neighbouring states to prevent the burning of crop residue, one of the key sources of seasonal air pollution. The governments of Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh have been asked to enforce crop residue management schemes and provide alternatives to stubble burning through mechanised collection systems.
The implementation of Stage One of GRAP signals the beginning of the annual pollution-control drive that continues through the winter months. While these measures are expected to provide some relief, experts have reiterated that long-term solutions lie in strengthening public transport, promoting clean energy, and enforcing emission standards throughout the year.
For now, Delhi and its adjoining regions will operate under heightened surveillance and tighter restrictions. The success of the measures will depend largely on the cooperation of citizens and the sustained commitment of enforcement agencies.
