GRAP Stage 1 Pollution Curbs Enforced Across Delhi-NCR as AQI Drops
CAQM Activates Stage One Action Plan Across National Capital Region
As the air quality in Delhi worsened to the 'poor' category, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the NCR announced restrictions. Regulatory oversight was initiated as statutory category, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the NCR issued orders. Environmental panels across the NCR and adjoining areas announced Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan. The emergency protocol follows Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Wednesday (October 21, 2026) across regional jurisdictions.
Air Quality Index Deterioration and Regional Meteorological Forecasts
Official tracking showed "The Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi, which was observed by telemetry stations. Baseline readings had been observed to be 179 (moderate category) on October 20, has suddenly shifted. Official monitoring showed that pollution has exhibited a sharp rise with an AQI of 244 in the afternoon. Telemetry confirmed the spike at 2 pm on October 21 (poor category)," said the commission in its official release. Atmospheric models corroborated the forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the partner scientific institutes. Meteorological scientists from Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology had predicted AQI to remain elevated. Predictive models warned pollution will remain in the 'poor' category in the coming days ahead.
Delhi Metro Expands Daily Train Frequency and Dust Mitigation
To encourage mass transit, authorities directed Delhi Metro to add 20 train trips on weekdays to reduce private cars. The expanded schedule begins on weekdays starting Thursday amid GRAP 1 enforcement across urban corridors. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Wednesday announced that it will enhance network frequency. Transit authorities confirmed that it will operate 20 additional train trips on weekdays to ease platform congestion. Around 31 km of city roads are currently under special maintenance to eliminate airborne dust. Engineers surveyed the DMRC's temporary jurisdiction to facilitate Metro construction work without loose soil. On the ground, More than 250 anti-smog guns and mist guns have been positioned along tracks. Specialized misting apparatus has also been installed at construction sites, Metro stations and office buildings.
Vehicular Restrictions Double Parking Fees and Municipal Directives
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa claimed this is the latest implementation in recent historical cycles. Minister Sirsa noted it was the first time in years that GRAP has been implemented so late in the autumn season. Under vehicular curbs, vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will face fuel denial. Enforcement rules mandate non-compliant cars will not get fuel, and parking charges will be doubled across commercial lots. Parking costs will be doubled across Delhi, except at Metro parking facilities to incentivize rail travel. Civic administrations approved Staggered working hours as well as work-from-home arrangements will be deployed across offices. Municipal contractors confirmed 608 anti-smog guns and 1,150 mist-spray units have been mobilized for road washing.