Overview
The CAQM has invoked Stage‑I of the GRAP across the NCR after the AQI rose to 208, placing it in the ‘Poor’ category on 19.05.2026.
Key Developments (Stage‑I Measures)
- Strict enforcement of dust‑mitigation rules for construction and demolition (C&D) and use of anti‑smog guns.
- Prohibition of open burning of biomass, municipal solid waste and landfill fires, with penalties under NGT orders.
- Enhanced vehicular controls: deployment of traffic police, strict PUC compliance, and impounding of visibly polluting vehicles.
- Industrial compliance: closure of non‑compliant units, enforcement of fuel standards in brick kilns, hot‑mix plants and thermal power stations.
- Public awareness and citizen participation through mobile apps (311, Green Delhi, SAMEER) and media alerts.
Important Facts
The daily AQI bulletin issued by the CPCB recorded the rise to 208. The 31‑point action plan involves agencies such as state Pollution Control Boards and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC). Measures include regular lifting of municipal solid waste, mechanised road sweeping, and augmentation of CNG/electric public transport.
Exam Relevance
Understanding the GRAP mechanism helps candidates link environmental policy with administrative action (GS3). The role of bodies like CAQM, CPCB, and NGT illustrate inter‑institutional coordination, a frequent UPSC topic. The citizen charter emphasizes behavioural change, tying into GS4 (ethics) and GS3 (environmental governance).
Way Forward
- Citizens to follow the charter: keep vehicles tuned, maintain tyre pressure, update PUC, avoid idling, and use EVs where possible.
- Report violations promptly via designated apps.
- Increase green cover and adopt eco‑friendly festival practices.
- Continuous monitoring by the CAQM Sub‑Committee and periodic review of forecasts from IMD/IITM.