Delhi is tightening its air pollution controls, enacting Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) just ahead of Diwali celebrations. This decision comes as the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the National Capital Region (NCR) has been steadily climbing, nearing the ‘very poor’ category.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) noted a concerning upward trend in Delhi’s AQI throughout the day, reaching 302 by 7:00 PM. Weather forecasts indicate a continued decline in air quality in the coming days, prompting the immediate implementation of stricter measures.
All Stage II GRAP actions, which target ‘very poor’ air quality conditions, are now in effect across the entire NCR. These additional restrictions are layered on top of the existing Stage I measures.
This escalation follows six consecutive days where Delhi’s air quality was classified as ‘poor.’ On Sunday evening, the city’s AQI stood at 296, a significant jump from previous days.
Neighboring urban centers are also experiencing similar air quality degradation. Noida and Ghaziabad have already surpassed the ‘very poor’ threshold, while Faridabad’s air quality is currently rated as ‘moderate.’
Despite the heightened pollution concerns, the use of green firecrackers has been approved on a trial basis, a move that has sparked apprehension about potential further air quality deterioration during the festive season.