NEW DELHI: Signalling the beginning of Delhi’s dreaded haze, pollution curbs under GRAP 1 have been imposed in the National Capital Region for the first time this season.
GRAP-1 is imposed when the Air Quality Index (AQI) is between 201 and 300.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which is in charge of controlling pollution in Delhi and its neighbouring areas, said the AQI was 244 at 2 pm.
“The Air Quality lndex (AQI) of Delhi which was observed at 179 (‘Moderate’ Category) on 20.10.2026, has exhibited a sharp rise with AQI of 244 at 02:00 PM on 21.10.2026 (‘Poor’ Category). Further, the forecast by IMD/IITM has also predicted AQI to remain in ‘Poor’ category in coming days,” the CAQM said in a statement.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa claimed this is the first time in years that GRAP has been implemented at a later stage of the season.
“Delhi has been grappling with severe air pollution for several years. While the previous government continued to make excuses, we have adopted both short-term and long-term measures to tackle pollution. Public participation has played a crucial role in our efforts. We are implementing an 11-point action plan, with the Centre and the Delhi government working together to control pollution. Our focus is on dust mitigation, promoting electric vehicles, controlling vehicular emissions and identifying local pollution sources,” he said.
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