GRAP IV Imposed In Delhi: Schools Shut, Non-BS6 Vehicles Barred, Construction Halted

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR in response to persistently severe air pollution levels, with the city's AQI frequently exceeding 400 and entering the 'severe+' category as of mid-December 2025. These stringent measures, building on earlier stages, aim to curb emissions from vehicles, construction, industry, and other sources amid stagnant winter conditions.

Schools and education: Physical classes are discontinued for students from nursery to Class 5, shifting entirely to online mode. Classes 6 to 9 and 11 operate in hybrid format, allowing online attendance, while Classes 10 and 12 generally continue physical sessions with precautions. Authorities monitor conditions daily for potential further shifts to full online learning.

Offices and workplaces: Government and private offices must limit on-site staff to 50%, mandating work-from-home for the remainder. Private entities are encouraged to adopt flexible hours, though no full closure is enforced.

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Vehicles and transport: Entry of non-BS-VI compliant vehicles into Delhi is restricted starting December 18, effectively barring older models. Vehicles without valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates cannot refuel at petrol pumps. Truck entry is largely banned except for LNG/CNG/electric/BS-VI models or those carrying essentials.

Construction and industry: All construction and demolition activities are prohibited, including public projects like highways and pipelines. Coal or firewood tandoors in restaurants and eateries are banned, with only electric or gas-operated ones permitted.

What remains open: Public transport like metros and buses is encouraged and fully operational. Essential services—including hospitals, airports, railways, fire, police, electricity, water supply, sanitation, and emergency operations—are exempted and continue without interruption. Permitted vehicles (CNG, electric, BS-VI) and exempted categories maintain normal access.

These restrictions, combined with prior GRAP stages, reflect urgent efforts to protect public health, particularly vulnerable groups, as pollution remains driven by vehicular emissions, biomass burning, and meteorological factors. Compliance is monitored strictly, with the potential for additional measures if conditions worsen.

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