CAQM revokes GRAP Stage-I across Delhi-NCR as AQI improves to 'Moderate'
The Commission for Air Quality Management's GRAP sub-committee on 16 March 2026 revoked all Stage-I actions across the National Capital Region after Delhi's average AQI improved from 175 to 119.
Summary
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) sub-committee of the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) revoked all Stage-I actions across the entire National Capital Region with immediate effect on Monday, 16 March 2026. Delhi's daily average Air Quality Index improved from 175 on 15 March to 119 on 16 March, as per the Central Pollution Control Board, helped by favourable weather. IMD and IITM forecasts indicated the AQI would stay in the 'Moderate' category in the coming days. State agencies and the Delhi government were asked to keep enforcing the Commission's statutory directions.
Key facts
- Date
- 16 March 2026
- Decision
- All GRAP Stage-I actions revoked across NCR
- Body
- CAQM sub-committee on GRAP
- Delhi AQI
- 175 (15 March) → 119 (16 March)
- Category
- Moderate
- Forecast by
- IMD and IITM
Practice MCQs 2 questions
Which body revoked GRAP Stage-I across Delhi-NCR on 16 March 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas
The GRAP sub-committee of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revoked all Stage-I actions across NCR.
Delhi's daily average AQI on 16 March 2026, when GRAP Stage-I was revoked, was recorded at:
Show answer
Correct answer: A — 119
Delhi's AQI improved from 175 on 15 March to 119 on 16 March 2026, in the 'Moderate' category.