On May 16, 2025, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas took a significant step to address the deteriorating air quality. The Sub-Committee for the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) invoked a 27-point action plan under Stage-I of GRAP across the entire NCR to prevent further decline in air quality. This article explores the reasons behind this decision, the measures implemented, and the responsibilities of citizens to ensure cleaner air.
Why Was Stage-I of GRAP Invoked?
Air Quality Deterioration in Delhi-NCR
On May 15, 2025, Delhi-NCR witnessed a sudden and sharp decline in air quality due to the long-range transport of dust caused by strong and variable surface winds. This episodic event led to Delhi’s daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 278 (categorized as ‘Poor’) on May 16, 2025, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The AQI range of 201–300 indicates poor air quality, necessitating immediate action to prevent further deterioration.
The Sub-Committee reviewed the air quality scenario, including forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). Despite expectations of improvement, the AQI remained in the lower range of the ‘Poor’ category, prompting the invocation of Stage-I GRAP measures with immediate effect on May 16, 2025.
Understanding the 27-Point Action Plan
Key Measures for Agencies
The 27-point action plan under Stage-I of GRAP includes a range of measures to be implemented by various agencies, including the Pollution Control Boards of NCR states and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC). Below is a summary of some critical actions:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Dust Mitigation | Strict implementation of guidelines for dust control in Construction and Demolition (C&D) activities, including registration of projects on state web portals. |
| Waste Management | Regular lifting of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), C&D waste, and hazardous waste from designated sites to prevent illegal dumping. |
| Road Maintenance | Mechanized sweeping, water sprinkling on roads, and scientific disposal of collected dust in designated landfills. |
| Anti-Smog Measures | Mandatory use of anti-smog guns at C&D sites proportional to the project’s built-up area. |
| Traffic Management | Deployment of traffic police at congested corridors and strict enforcement of Pollution Under Control (PUC) norms. |
| Industrial Compliance | Enforcement of emission norms in industries, brick kilns, and hot mix plants, with closure for non-compliance. |
These measures aim to address key sources of air pollution, including dust, vehicular emissions, and industrial activities, ensuring a comprehensive approach to air quality management.
Citizen Responsibilities Under Stage-I GRAP
Citizen Charter Guidelines
The CAQM has urged citizens to adhere to the Citizen Charter under Stage-I of GRAP to contribute to improving air quality. Key responsibilities include:
- Vehicle Maintenance: Keep vehicle engines tuned, maintain proper tyre pressure, and ensure valid PUC certificates.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Avoid idling vehicles, turn off engines at red lights, and prefer hybrid or electric vehicles.
- Waste Management: Do not litter or dispose of waste in open spaces.
- Reporting Pollution: Use apps like 311 App, Green Delhi App, or SAMEER App to report air-polluting activities.
- Green Initiatives: Plant more trees and celebrate festivals eco-friendly by avoiding firecrackers.
- Vehicle Restrictions: Avoid driving end-of-life diesel/petrol vehicles (10/15 years old).
By following these guidelines, citizens can play a pivotal role in reducing air pollution and supporting the efforts of regulatory authorities.
Monitoring and Future Actions
Ongoing Vigilance
The CAQM Sub-Committee will continue to monitor the air quality scenario and review the situation periodically. The IMD/IITM forecasts predict that the AQI may remain in the ‘Poor’ category on May 17, 2025. Depending on the air quality trends, the Sub-Committee may escalate or modify the GRAP measures to ensure effective control of pollution levels.
All implementing agencies are required to maintain strict vigilance, intensify dust mitigation measures, and address complaints received through social media platforms promptly. The comprehensive GRAP schedule is available on the CAQM official website for further reference.
Key Highlights
- Stage-I of GRAP invoked on May 16, 2025, due to Delhi’s AQI reaching 278 (‘Poor’).
- A 27-point action plan implemented across NCR to control dust, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution.
- Citizens urged to follow the Citizen Charter, including vehicle maintenance and eco-friendly practices.
- Agencies to enforce dust mitigation, waste management, and anti-smog measures stringently.
- Ongoing monitoring with potential escalation of GRAP measures based on air quality trends.