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The air quality in Delhi and surrounding areas has been deteriorating continuously for the last few days. On May 15, 2025, the air quality suddenly became very bad. The reason for this was that dust kept coming to the city from far and wide along with strong winds. This change is temporary (episodic), but it can affect people’s health. In view of this, the sub-committee of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) held a meeting on May 16 and reviewed the situation.
On May 16, Delhi’s average AQI was 278, which falls in the ‘poor’ category. According to the Meteorological Department (IMD) and IITM, the air quality is expected to remain in the same category on May 17 as well. In view of this situation, the sub-committee has decided to implement the first phase of GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) i.e. Stage-I in the entire NCR.
What is GRAP Stage-I?
The objective of GRAP is to control air pollution. Stage-I is implemented when the AQI is in the ‘poor’ (201-300) category. Under this, there are many guidelines for the government, agencies and the general public.
What is expected from the common citizens?
Get your vehicles serviced regularly and keep the PUC certificate up-to-date.
Do not keep the vehicle running unnecessarily, especially switch off the engine at traffic signals.
Give preference to electric or hybrid vehicles.
Do not burn garbage in the open.
Do not drive old (10-15 years) petrol/diesel vehicles.
Complain about polluters on platforms like Green Delhi App, SAMEER App.
Celebrate eco-friendly festivals and avoid using firecrackers.
Directions for government agencies
Government agencies will have to take 27 necessary steps like sprinkling water on roads, measures to prevent dust, timely cleaning of garbage, and ensuring compliance of rules at construction sites.
CAQM has made it clear that all departments should follow these measures and the general public should also cooperate. It is the responsibility of all of us to participate in keeping the air of Delhi-NCR clean. Complete information about GRAP is available on https://caqm.nic.in.
