Very poor air: Delhi to face stricter curbs under revised GRAP plan

New Delhi: Stricter anti-pollution measures are set to come into force in Delhi as air quality continues to deteriorate ahead of peak winter months. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has revised the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), bringing tougher restrictions into Stage III, which is currently active in the National Capital Region due to an AQI above 401.

Under the revised norms, measures earlier reserved for GRAP Stage IV have now been moved to Stage III. State governments in the NCR have been asked to consider permitting only 50 per cent attendance in public, municipal and private offices, with the remaining workforce operating from home. The CAQM said the Centre may take a similar view regarding employees in central government offices.

Other restrictions that were previously part of GRAP Stage III -- such as staggered office timings -- have now been shifted into Stage II, applicable for AQI between 301 and 400. Transport-related advisories, previously under Stage II, will now fall under Stage I, which applies when air quality slips into the 'poor' category.

"All agencies responsible for implementation of GRAP in the NCR have been directed to take note of the modifications and enforce them immediately," the CAQM said in a statement.

Delhi recorded an AQI of 360 this morning, placing it in the 'very poor' category. In view of worsening pollution levels, the Delhi government has already ordered all schools and colleges to postpone outdoor sports events scheduled for November and December.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI between 401 and 500 is categorised as 'severe', and 301 to 400 as 'very poor'.