CAQM invokes Stage-I of GRAP across Delhi-NCR as Delhi's AQI slips to 'Poor'
On 21 October 2026, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked all 25 action points of Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the entire NCR after Delhi's average AQI reached 244-245 ('Poor').
Summary
The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) invoked Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) with immediate effect in the entire National Capital Region on 21 October 2026. The decision followed Delhi's daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 244 at 2 PM and 245 at 4 PM, in the 'Poor' category (201-300), as per the CPCB bulletin. The CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP ordered all 25 Stage-I action points, including dust control at construction sites, a ban on open burning of biomass and waste, PUC enforcement and limits on diesel generator use.
Key facts
- Decision
- Stage-I of GRAP invoked in entire NCR
- By
- CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP
- Date
- 21 October 2026
- Delhi AQI
- 244 (2 PM), 245 (4 PM) - 'Poor'
- Stage-I trigger
- Delhi AQI 201-300 ('Poor')
- Action points
- 25 under Stage-I
- AQI data
- CPCB daily AQI bulletin
- Examples
- C&D dust control, ban on open burning, PUC enforcement, DG set restrictions
Practice MCQs 3 questions
Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), invoked in Delhi-NCR on 21 October 2026, applies when Delhi's AQI is in which range?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — 201-300 ('Poor')
How many action points were invoked under Stage-I of GRAP in the NCR on 21 October 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — 25
Which body invoked Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan in Delhi-NCR on 21 October 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: A — Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)