Delhi Air Quality Hits “Very Poor,” CAQM Imposes Stage II Restrictions To Curb Pollution Before Diwali

Delhi's air quality deteriorated into the "very poor" category on Sunday, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to implement Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR-just a day before Diwali.

Air Quality Status

CAQM reported that Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 296 around 4 PM and rose to 302 by 7 PM, moving the city from the "poor" to the "very poor" category. Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) indicated that air quality would worsen due to stagnant meteorological conditions and anticipated emissions from Diwali fireworks. Nearby areas such as Noida and Ghaziabad already recorded "very poor" levels, while Faridabad's readings remained "moderate."

Stage II GRAP Restrictions

Stage II measures are an escalation of Stage I curbs and target major sources of pollution. Key restrictions include:

• Prohibition on the use of coal and firewood, including tandoors in hotels and restaurants.
• Ban on diesel generator sets, except for essential services such as hospitals and emergency facilities.
• Increased parking fees to discourage private vehicle use.
• Expansion of metro and CNG-electric bus services to reduce vehicular emissions.
• Mandatory dust control at construction sites, with potential halts on non-essential work if violations occur.
• Directive to RWAs to provide heaters to security personnel to prevent burning wood or waste for warmth.

Broader Implications

Authorities warned that pollution could reach "severe" levels post-Diwali due to extensive firecracker use, urging residents to limit outdoor exposure and avoid fireworks where possible. The CAQM also noted that higher stages of GRAP, such as Stage III, would enforce stricter measures-including bans on construction activities and diesel vehicle entry-if AQI exceeds 400.