Delhi Activates GRAP-3 as Air Turns ‘Severe’: What Do The Rules Sayw

As Delhi-NCR’s air quality slipped into the ‘Severe’ category for the first time this season, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

The decision came after the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) spiked to 428. Bawana recorded the highest pollution level at 462, while Alipur, Chandni Chowk, RK Puram, and Patparganj also reported dangerously high readings between 412 and 446.

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a framework designed to combat air pollution in Delhi-NCR through escalating measures as air quality worsens. GRAP has four stages ranging from “Poor” to “Severe Plus.” When pollution reaches Stage 3 (AQI 401–450), strict restrictions are imposed to reduce emissions and protect public health.

Under GRAP-3, Delhi Police has banned BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles, including light and medium goods carriers, except those carrying essential goods. Non-destined goods vehicles are being diverted, and only cleaner BS-VI, CNG, or electric buses are allowed to enter Delhi.

Additionally, all dust-generating construction, demolition, and mining activities have been halted. Schools up to Class 5 have shifted to hybrid or online learning, and local authorities have intensified road cleaning and dust control measures across the city.