Delhi-NCR Air Quality Deterioration Triggers GRAP-1 Measures

The CAQM has activated stage one measures in Delhi-NCR as air quality worsens into the 'poor' category, with an AQI of 226. Restrictions include banning coal and firewood in eateries and limited use of diesel generators. The action follows an AQI forecast to stay poor for two more days.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) initiated stage-one measures in Delhi-NCR due to deteriorating air quality, which slipped into the 'poor' category with an AQI reading of 226 on Thursday. This decision comes as meteorological forecasts predict continued poor air quality for the next two days.

The CAQM's sub-committee swiftly implemented actions under stage-1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the entire NCR, reinstating measures that were lifted last month. During GRAP-1, coal and firewood use in hotels, restaurants, and open eateries are banned, and diesel generators are reserved for emergencies only.

With four stages in the GRAP system, stage-1 is triggered when AQI falls between 201 and 300. Subsequent stages are enacted as the AQI worsens, implementing stricter controls to mitigate pollution and protect public health.

(With inputs from agencies.)