Delhi Implements Stage 3 GRAP as Air Quality Deteriorates to Severe

The Hindu
The Hindu
1m ago • 1 views
Delhi and NCR have enacted stringent air pollution controls amid severe AQI readings, including activity bans and school schedule changes.
Delhi Implements Stage 3 GRAP as Air Quality Deteriorates to Severe
A What happened
As Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) experienced severe air pollution (AQI 401-450) on December 13, 2025, the Commission for Air Quality Management imposed Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This stage includes immediate bans on construction and demolition activities throughout NCR, prohibitions on BS III petrol and BS IV diesel light motor vehicles in Delhi and select NCR districts, and mandates hybrid mode learning for students up to grade 5. These emergency measures complement previous GRAP stages and respond to data showing multiple monitoring stations with AQI values exceeding 400, signaling hazardous air quality levels threatening public health and safety.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Emergency pollution controls highlight persistent urban air quality crisis: The activation of Stage 3 GRAP demonstrates structural challenges in Delhi-NCR's air quality management amid recurring severe pollution episodes during winters.

  • 2

    Vehicle emissions and construction identified as key pollution sources: Targeted bans on older petrol/diesel vehicles and construction activities reflect recognition of major contributors to Delhi's hazardous air pollution levels.

  • 3

    Hybrid schooling as adaptive public health measure: Mandating hybrid learning for early-grade students acknowledges the health risks severe pollution poses to children and the need for flexible education responses.

Takeaways

Stage 3 GRAP activation for Delhi-NCR represents an urgent, multifaceted response to deteriorating air quality. Sustained structural solutions will be necessary to reduce recurring severe pollution episodes.

Topics

Climate & Environment Climate World & Politics Policy & Regulation