The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Wednesday imposed Stage I restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR after air quality deteriorated to the ‘Poor’ category.
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 244 at 2 pm on October 21, rising from 179 a day earlier, according to the commission. Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology suggest poor air quality may persist in the coming days.
Under Stage I measures, authorities will enforce restrictions on coal and firewood use in tandoors at hotels, restaurants and open eateries. Measures also cover the use of diesel generators.
The CAQM has directed agencies across the region to implement the restrictions immediately, strengthen pollution-control efforts and maintain strict monitoring. Residents have also been urged to follow the prescribed citizen charter.
The order covers Delhi and the National Capital Region areas in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.
The GRAP framework introduces progressively stricter measures as pollution levels rise. Stage I applies when the AQI falls between 201 and 300.
The CAQM sub-committee will continue reviewing air quality readings and weather forecasts before deciding whether additional restrictions are necessary.