Delhi’s air quality has worsened sharply ahead of Diwali, with the AQI crossing 400 in several areas and the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) enforcing Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR. The measures include tighter dust-control action, increased road cleaning and water sprinkling, and an appeal to residents to use public transport instead of private vehicles.
CPCB data displayed at 8:30 am on November 3 showed Jahangirpuri recording the highest AQI among the locations listed, at 451. Rohini recorded 431, Punjabi Bagh 424, Alipur 415, Vivek Vihar 411, while Bawana and the Delhi Technological University monitoring station each recorded 409. Narela recorded an AQI of 408.
More than 20 other areas recorded AQI levels between 300 and 400, according to the report. CPCB classifies AQI readings from 301 to 400 as very poor and readings from 401 to 500 as severe. Delhi’s average AQI was 324 on Monday, compared with 261 on November 1 and 117 on October 31, indicating a rapid deterioration over three days.
CAQM attributed the worsening air quality to adverse weather conditions and said pollution levels were expected to remain in the very poor category in the coming days. GRAP Stage I measures will continue alongside the Stage II restrictions. The measures are being implemented through the CAQM sub-committee, which assesses air-quality and weather forecasts before deciding on further action.
Under the restrictions, authorities will increase mechanical cleaning and water sprinkling on major roads. Dust-control measures will be intensified at pollution hotspots and construction sites, while resident welfare associations have been asked to focus on local cleanliness. Residents have also been advised not to burn wood or waste in the open.
CAQM has asked people to choose buses and the Metro over private vehicles and to consider working from home where possible. In response to the deterioration in air quality, the Delhi Metro has announced 20 additional train trips. The transport measures are intended to support public movement while limiting emissions from private vehicles.
Pollution is also visible in the Yamuna, where toxic foam was reported floating again near Kalindi Kunj. Preparations have begun ahead of the Chhath festival, including chemical spraying in the river to address the foam. The report does not provide details of the chemical being used or the agency responsible for the operation.
CAQM’s GRAP framework links restrictions to measured air-quality conditions and forecasts. Stage II is imposed when Delhi’s air quality reaches the very poor range, with additional steps aimed at controlling road dust, construction emissions, open burning and vehicle-related pollution. The current restrictions will remain alongside Stage I measures as authorities monitor air quality and weather conditions.
