Delhi has moved to Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as the air quality index (AQI) inches closer to the ‘very poor’ category, just days before Diwali. The Centre’s air quality panel has mandated the implementation of stricter measures across the National Capital Region (NCR).
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) highlighted the increasing AQI trend, noting it reached 302 by 7:00 PM. “The forecast by IMD/IITM also predicts further deterioration of AQI in coming days,” the commission stated, justifying the immediate invocation of Stage II actions.
This means all restrictions associated with ‘very poor’ air quality are now active throughout the NCR, supplementing the ongoing Stage I measures. The decision was made by the GRAP’s Sub-Committee.
For six consecutive days, Delhi has been struggling with ‘poor’ air quality. Sunday’s AQI of 296 marked a significant uptick from the preceding days, which saw readings between 245 and 268.
Meanwhile, nearby cities are also grappling with declining air quality. Noida and Ghaziabad are already classified under ‘very poor’ AQI levels, while Faridabad remains in the ‘moderate’ zone.
Adding to the air quality concerns, green firecrackers have been permitted in Delhi on a trial basis, raising questions about their impact on an already stressed environment during the Diwali festivities.