Published: 8 November 2025IQAirEnvironment
Delhi AQI Crosses 400 Mark; GRAP Stage II Remains in Force as Pollution Crisis Deepens
Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) breached the 400 mark on November 9, 2025, pushing air quality into the 'severe+' category at multiple monitoring stations. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked GRAP Stage IV restrictions.
Stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh — involving 15-20 million tonnes of paddy stubble annually — combined with vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and post-Diwali residual effects created the toxic smog. Delhi recorded zero 'Good' air quality days in 2025. GRAP Stage IV measures include a ban on construction activities, closure of schools for primary students, and restrictions on entry of non-essential trucks.
0Mains angle
Q: Assess the efficacy of Graded Response Action Plan Stage IV measures in addressing Delhi's recurring winter air pollution emergency.
Answer (50 words):
On 9 November 2025 Delhi's AQI crossed 400, triggering GRAP Stage IV by the Commission for Air Quality Management. Stubble burning across Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh of 15 to 20 million tonnes paddy residue, vehicles and post-Diwali smog drove severe-plus levels; construction, schools, trucks faced curbs.
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World Habitat Day was established by the UN General Assembly in which year?
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Frequently asked questions
What happened to Delhi's AQI on November 9, 2025?
Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) breached the 400 mark on November 9, 2025, pushing air quality into the 'severe+' category at multiple monitoring stations. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked GRAP Stage IV restrictions.
Which factors combined to create Delhi's toxic smog?
Stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh, involving 15-20 million tonnes of paddy stubble annually, combined with vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and post-Diwali residual effects.
What did Delhi record for 'Good' air quality days in 2025?
Delhi recorded zero 'Good' air quality days in 2025.
Which measures were included under GRAP Stage IV?
GRAP Stage IV measures include a ban on construction activities, closure of schools for primary students, and restrictions on entry of non-essential trucks.
