The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Saturday enforced Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the Delhi-NCR as air pollution levels rose sharply and approached the ‘Severe Plus’ category.
According to CAQM, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) increased from 431 at 4 PM to 446 by 6 PM, indicating a worsening trend. The rise in pollution was attributed to slow wind movement, stable atmospheric conditions, unfavourable weather, and poor dispersion of pollutants.
To prevent further deterioration, the CAQM Sub-Committee decided to implement all measures under Stage IV of GRAP with immediate effect throughout the NCR. These actions will be enforced in addition to restrictions already in place under Stages I, II, and III.
The Commission also directed NCR Pollution Control Boards and other concerned agencies to strengthen preventive measures to control pollution levels.
As of 7 PM, several areas recorded extremely high AQI levels, including 488 in Anand Vihar, 496 in Bawana, 479 in Chandni Chowk, 457 in Burari, and 445 in Okhla Phase-2. Ashok Vihar recorded 434, while IGI Airport recorded an AQI of 394.
Earlier in the day, CAQM had activated Stage III of GRAP, which includes a ban on construction and demolition activities across Delhi and the NCR.
The situation follows continued poor air quality conditions observed on Friday, when thick toxic smog covered many parts of the national capital, reducing visibility and causing discomfort to residents.
