Air pollution in Delhi NCR has deteriorated sharply, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to enforce Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the region with immediate effect on November 2, 2026.
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 324 at 4 pm on Monday, entering the ‘very poor’ category for the first time this season. Authorities expect unfavourable weather conditions to keep pollution levels elevated over the coming days.
The decision followed a review of the latest air quality readings and weather forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). The CAQM directed agencies to implement measures under both Stage I and Stage II of GRAP.
Road Cleaning, Anti-Smog Guns and Traffic Checks Intensified
Under Stage II restrictions, authorities across Delhi NCR have been instructed to strengthen measures to control road dust and vehicular emissions.
The steps include regular mechanical cleaning of roads, water sprinkling and the deployment of anti-smog guns. Agencies have also been directed to ensure proper collection and disposal of garbage and construction waste, while taking strict action against open waste burning.
Traffic police will increase their presence at congested roads and intersections to reduce vehicle idling. Officials will also intensify checks for valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates and take action against visibly polluting vehicles.
Industries, brick kilns and power plants will face stricter inspections to ensure compliance with pollution control standards and the use of approved fuels.
Diesel Generators and Commercial Establishments Under Scrutiny
Hotels, restaurants and roadside eateries have been asked to stop using coal and firewood in tandoors and switch to electricity- or gas based alternatives.
Authorities will also work to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply to reduce dependence on diesel generators. Their use will remain regulated, except for specified emergency services.
To reduce traffic related pollution, the frequency of metro, Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), CNG and electric bus services will be increased. Offices have also been encouraged to arrange shared transport facilities for employees.
Citizens Advised to Use Public Transport and Avoid Open Burning
The CAQM has urged residents to use public transport, carpool and maintain their vehicles properly. Motorists have been advised to keep valid PUC certificates and switch off engines at traffic signals.
People have also been asked to avoid burning household waste, dispose of garbage responsibly, limit diesel generator use and refrain from bursting firecrackers.
Residents can report pollution-related violations through the 311, Green Delhi and SAMEER mobile applications.
Delhi’s AQI Rises Sharply After Recent Rainfall
Delhi’s air quality deteriorated rapidly over a few days. Following heavy rainfall, the AQI dropped to 60 on Friday, giving the Capital its cleanest October air quality reading in four years.
However, pollution levels subsequently increased to 117 on October 31, entering the moderate category, before rising to 261 on November 1 and reaching 324 on November 2.
Of the 59 air quality monitoring stations across Delhi, data from 58 stations was available on Monday. As many as 36 recorded very poor air quality, while Jahangirpuri was the only station to enter the severe category, recording an AQI of 417. Five stations reported moderate air quality, with the remaining stations in the poor category.
Unfavourable Weather Could Prolong the Smog
Meteorologist Navdeep Dahiya warned that the smog season had begun and that atmospheric conditions could worsen pollution over the following days.
He pointed to northwesterly winds and relatively calm conditions, which could allow pollutants to remain trapped in the atmosphere for longer periods.
Dahiya also warned that favourable weather conditions were not expected over the next seven to 10 days raising concerns about worsening smog across Delhi-NCR and the northern plains.
With pollution levels rising and weather conditions offering little immediate relief, the implementation of GRAP Stage II is aimed at limiting further deterioration in air quality and reducing public exposure to hazardous pollution.