New Delhi is grappling with a significant surge in air pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) registering a 'very poor' 364 on Saturday morning, November 7, 2026. This alarming level, recorded just a day before the Diwali festival, has led the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to invoke Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the Delhi-NCR region.
The deteriorating air quality is attributed to a combination of factors, including stubble burning in neighboring states and increased traffic associated with the festive season. Several monitoring stations in the national capital reported AQI levels exceeding 400, categorizing the air quality as 'severe'. IIT Delhi recorded the highest at 443, followed by Punjabi Bagh (433), Vivek Vihar (424), and Jahangirpuri (420).
GRAP Stage III Restrictions Now Active
The implementation of GRAP Stage III brings a series of stringent measures aimed at curbing further pollution. These restrictions are in addition to those already in force under Stages I and II:
- Construction and Demolition: Non-essential construction and demolition activities are prohibited. This includes earthwork, piling, trenching, and other dust-generating operations. Ready-mix concrete plants will also face restrictions.
- Vehicle Restrictions: BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers are now restricted from operating in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar. Certain diesel goods vehicles also face restrictions, though those carrying essential commodities or providing essential services are exempt.
- Educational Institutions: State governments are mandated to conduct online classes for students up to Class 5 wherever feasible, shifting to a hybrid model.
- Office Operations: Authorities in Delhi and NCR have the discretion to direct government and private offices to operate with 50% of staff working remotely.
The GRAP framework escalates measures based on AQI levels. Stage I is triggered at an AQI of 201-300, Stage II at 301-400, Stage III at 401-500, and Stage IV when the AQI surpasses 450.
Areas Most Affected by Severe Air Quality
As of 8 AM on November 7, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data indicated several areas experiencing 'severe' air quality:
- IIT Delhi - 443
- Punjabi Bagh - 433
- Vivek Vihar - 424
- Jahangirpuri - 420
- Rohini - 418
- R K Puram - 413
- Sirifort - 410
- Bawana - 410
- Dwarka Sector 8 - 409
- North Campus, DU - 407
- Alipur - 402
Residents are advised to take precautions, especially during outdoor activities, as authorities work to mitigate the severe air pollution ahead of the festive celebrations.