Stricter GRAP Rules Come Into Force as Delhi’s Air Quality Plummets

Delhi Implements Stricter GRAP Restrictions as Air Quality Worsens Across NCR

New Delhi: As Delhi’s air quality continues to decline this week, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has introduced a revised and significantly stricter version of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for the entire National Capital Region (NCR). The updated schedule, notified on 21 November 2025, brings tougher curbs into effect earlier than before, aiming to prevent air pollution from reaching severe and emergency levels.

The revised GRAP framework was finalised after extensive consultations with state authorities, environmental experts, and other key stakeholders. With Delhi’s AQI slipping into dangerous zones, the more aggressive approach is intended to serve as an early-warning shield for the region.

What’s New in the Updated GRAP?

Under the revamped plan, several restrictions that previously fell under later stages have now been shifted to earlier phases. This means that measures such as construction bans, vehicular curbs, industrial restrictions, and generator controls will be triggered sooner as pollution increases.

Officials say the goal is to act preemptively, not reactively, especially as winter conditions intensify the risk of toxic smog across Delhi and its neighbouring cities.

The CAQM has emphasized that strict monitoring and quick enforcement will be the cornerstone of the 2025 GRAP rollout, ensuring NCR is better prepared to deal with recurring pollution spikes.