Authorities on Thursday invoked Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the National Capital Region (NCR) after Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) deteriorated to the “very poor” category, officials said.

According to data, the AQI in Delhi was recorded at 343 at 4 pm on Thursday, showing a rising trend throughout the day. The worsening air quality prompted officials to activate stricter measures to curb pollution and safeguard public health.

Under GRAP-3 restrictions, non-essential construction and demolition activities have been suspended, and certain industrial operations are subject to tighter controls. The use of diesel generator sets is also restricted, except for essential and emergency services, while vehicular emissions are being closely monitored.

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Authorities have intensified cleaning and dust control measures, including mechanised road sweeping and water sprinkling at construction sites, to prevent further degradation of air quality. Enforcement agencies have been tasked with ensuring full compliance with these curbs.

Health experts have warned that prolonged exposure to “very poor” air quality can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, especially among children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health issues. Residents have been advised to limit outdoor activities and use masks when necessary.

The GRAP framework is implemented in stages depending on the severity of pollution. Officials said the situation is being closely monitored, and additional measures may be imposed if air quality continues to worsen in the coming days.

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