Delhi Air Quality Dips into 'Poor' Category, GRAP 1 Enforced Across NCR as AQI Crosses 240

Air quality across Delhi-NCR deteriorated as the Air Quality Index slipped into the poor category, breaching the 240 mark in late October. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management invoked Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan across the national capital region. Under GRAP 1 measures, authorities have intensified water sprinkling, mechanized road sweeping, and dust control inspections at construction sites, while over 250 anti-smog guns have been deployed. Restrictions have been placed on non-compliant commercial and diesel vehicles entering Delhi, alongside curbs on open waste burning and coal-based stoves. The India Meteorological Department flagged unfavourable wind conditions and geographical trapping of pollution as contributing factors, alongside local industrial emissions, vehicular traffic, and rising stubble burning cases in Punjab and Haryana. To encourage public transport and reduce vehicular emissions, the Delhi Metro announced 20 additional train trips on weekdays, with additional government measures planned for implementation ahead of the winter season.