The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced on 21 October 2026 that the CAQM Sub-Committee has invoked Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for the entire NCR with immediate effect. This decision follows a rise in the daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) to 245, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The move implements 25 action points focused on dust mitigation, waste management, and stricter vehicle and industry emission norms to prevent further deterioration of air quality. The measures apply to all implementing agencies, industries, and citizens across the National Capital Region.
Key points
- Invoked due to AQI reaching 245 ('Poor' category) in Delhi.
- 25 action points implemented across the entire NCR with immediate effect.
- C&D projects $\ge$ 500 sqm must be registered on the web portal to operate.
- Inter-city buses entering Delhi-NCR must be EV, CNG, or BS-VI Diesel.
- Citizens are urged to use public transport, maintain PUC certificates, and avoid firecrackers.
When it applies
- invocation of Stage-I of GRAP
Who it affects
- agencies, industries, and vehicle owners
Refers to
- GRAP (September 2026)