Published: 18 October 2025CAQMGeneral
GRAP Stage-II Invoked in Delhi-NCR as AQI Crosses 300
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage-II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR on October 19, 2025, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeded 300, entering the 'Very Poor' category (AQI 301-400). This followed Stage-I implementation on October 14, 2025, when AQI had crossed the 200 mark ('Poor' category).
Stage-II restrictions include ban on the use of coal and firewood in restaurants and eateries, enhanced mechanised sweeping, water sprinkling on roads, strict enforcement against open waste burning, and increased frequency of public transport. The early onset of poor air quality in mid-October is attributed to declining wind speeds, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, and increased vehicular emissions. Rajasthan's contribution to Delhi's air pollution through dust transport from the Thar Desert is also a factor during the pre-winter season.
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Q: Analyse the causes of Delhi-NCR's deteriorating pre-winter air quality and the preventive role of GRAP Stage-II measures.
Answer (50 words):
CAQM invoked GRAP Stage-II on 19 October 2025 as AQI crossed 300 ('Very Poor'), after Stage-I on 14 October. Measures include banning coal and firewood in eateries, mechanised sweeping, water sprinkling, and expanded public transport. Declining winds, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, vehicular emissions, and Thar dust from Rajasthan worsened conditions.
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Linked questionMedium
SAMEER 2.0 is an app launched by CPCB for monitoring which parameter?
Explanation · Correct answer BSAMEER provides hourly updates of the National Air Quality Index published by the Central Pollution Control Board and also supports complaints related to air pollution. Therefore, it is an air-quality monitoring and public-information app, not a soil, water or noise-monitoring app.
Frequently asked questions
When was GRAP Stage-II invoked in Delhi-NCR and why?
**GRAP Stage-II** was invoked in Delhi-NCR on **October 19, 2025** by the **Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)** as the AQI exceeded **300, entering the 'Very Poor' category (AQI 301-400)**. Stage-I had been implemented on October 14, 2025, when AQI crossed 200.
What restrictions are imposed under GRAP Stage-II in Delhi?
**GRAP Stage-II restrictions** include a **ban on the use of coal and firewood** in restaurants and eateries, enhanced mechanised sweeping, increased water sprinkling on roads, strict enforcement of dust control norms at construction sites, and enhanced public transport operations.
What is GRAP and who administers it in Delhi-NCR?
**GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan)** is a set of emergency measures to control air pollution in Delhi-NCR based on AQI levels. It is administered by the **Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)**. GRAP has four stages — Stage-II triggers at AQI 300+ ('Very Poor').
What AQI level triggers GRAP Stage-I and Stage-II in Delhi?
**GRAP Stage-I** triggers when AQI crosses **200 (Poor category)**. **GRAP Stage-II** triggers when AQI exceeds **300 (Very Poor category, AQI 301-400)**. Stage-I was invoked on October 14, 2025 and Stage-II on October 19, 2025 in Delhi-NCR.
What is the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)?
The **Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)** is a statutory body that oversees air quality in the **Delhi-NCR region**. It administers the **Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)** and invokes different stages based on AQI levels to control pollution.
