National Capital Region Enters ‘Severe’ Air Quality Zone, Stage-III GRAP Measures Implemented

Authorities confirmed that Delhi entered the ‘Severe’ air quality category on Saturday as pollution levels worsened across the capital and adjoining NCR regions. Acting swiftly, the Commission for Air Quality Management enforced Stage-III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan with immediate effect.

Officials decided after the Air Quality Index crossed the 400 mark on Friday morning. By 10 am, monitoring data showed the AQI had touched 401, indicating hazardous conditions for residents.

Data analysed by the GRAP Sub-Committee revealed a steady worsening trend over the last three days. Levels climbed from 259 on December 10 to 307 on December 11 and further to 349 on December 12 before breaching the ‘Severe’ threshold.

Experts attributed the sharp decline in air quality to unfavourable meteorological conditions. Very low wind speeds, a stable atmosphere and poor dispersion have caused pollutants to remain trapped over the region.

Additionally, a shift in wind direction towards easterlies has worsened PM2.5 concentrations, the primary winter pollutant. Almost all air quality monitoring stations in Delhi have reported elevated levels of fine particulate matter.

Strict Measures Under Stage-III GRAP

Under Stage-III, all actions prescribed for ‘Severe’ air quality have come into force alongside existing Stage-I and Stage-II measures. Enforcement agencies have tightened checks on dust control at construction sites and intensified action against polluting activities.

Civic authorities across the NCR have also increased surveillance and monitoring to ensure compliance with pollution norms.

Significantly, the CAQM has barred the entry of BS-IV diesel-operated light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi, except those transporting essential goods or providing essential services. This restriction supersedes earlier relaxations, as GRAP measures are considered emergency interventions.

Meanwhile, BS-III and older diesel commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi continue to face a complete ban, even if engaged in essential services, in line with directions effective since November 1, 2025.

Authorities have directed all implementing agencies to strictly enforce the curbs across Delhi-NCR. Citizens have also been urged to follow the GRAP citizen charter and minimise activities that contribute to air pollution.

Officials stated that air quality levels will be closely monitored in the coming days. Further decisions on easing or tightening restrictions will depend on forecasts issued by the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology.

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