Overview
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and Adjoining Areas has revised the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for the entire NCR on November 21, 2025. This revision aims to make the plan more stringent and proactive in preventing further deterioration of air quality in the Delhi-NCR region. The revised GRAP schedule reflects a shift in the implementation of measures, with actions previously associated with higher AQI levels now being implemented at lower AQI levels.
Background of GRAP
GRAP is an emergency response mechanism for the entire NCR, based on average AQI levels and forecasts for meteorological/weather conditions in Delhi. It brings together multiple stakeholders, implementing agencies, and authorities in NCR to respond to situations of deteriorating air quality in the region. The plan has been formulated after careful consideration of scientific data, stakeholder consultations, expert recommendations, and field experience gained over the past years.
Key Developments
Amendments in the GRAP Schedule
The Commission, through its Sub-Committee on GRAP, held detailed consultations on November 20, 2025, with concerned stakeholders regarding proposed amendments in the schedule of GRAP. The following key amendments were agreed upon:
A. Measures Shifted from GRAP Stage II to Stage I
The following measures, previously under GRAP Stage II, will now be implemented under GRAP Stage I (when the Delhi AQI ranges between 201-300, indicating ‘Poor’ air quality):
- Ensure uninterrupted power supply to discourage the use of alternate power generating sets/equipment (DG sets etc.).
- Synchronize traffic movements and deploy adequate personnel at intersections/traffic congestion points for smooth traffic flow.
- Issue alerts in newspapers/TV/radio to advise people about air pollution levels and Do’s and Don’ts for minimizing polluting activities.
- Augment public transport services through CNG/electric buses and metro services by inducting additional fleet and increasing the frequency of service. Introduce differential rates to encourage off-peak travel.
B. Measures Shifted from GRAP Stage III to Stage II
The following measures, previously under GRAP Stage III, will now be implemented under GRAP Stage II (when the Delhi AQI ranges between 301-400, indicating ‘Very Poor’ air quality):
- GNCTD and NCR State Governments to stagger timings for public offices and municipal bodies in the National Capital Territory of Delhi and the districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddh Nagar.
- State Governments may take a decision to stagger timings for public offices and municipal bodies in other areas of NCR.
- The Central Government may take a decision on staggering the timings of Central Government offices in Delhi-NCR.
C. Measures Shifted from GRAP Stage IV to Stage III
The following measures, previously under GRAP Stage IV, will now be implemented under GRAP Stage III (when the Delhi AQI ranges between 401-450, indicating ‘Severe’ air quality):
- NCR State Governments/GNCTD to take a decision on allowing public, municipal, and private offices to work on 50% strength, with the rest working from home.
- The Central Government may take appropriate decisions on permitting work from home for employees in central government offices.
Implementation
All agencies responsible for the implementation of GRAP in NCR have been directed to take note of the modifications made in the revised GRAP Schedule and implement them immediately in the region. The complete details of the extant GRAP are available on the official website of the Commission: https://caqm.nic.in
Exam Relevance
This news is relevant for the UPSC Civil Services Exam, particularly for the GS Paper III (Environment) and GS Paper II (Government Policies). It highlights the government's efforts to combat air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region through policy interventions and adaptive strategies. Understanding the GRAP framework and its revisions is crucial for aspirants.
Key Takeaways for UPSC Aspirants
- Understand the structure and function of CAQM.
- Familiarize yourself with the different stages of GRAP and the corresponding measures.
- Analyze the effectiveness of GRAP in addressing air pollution.
- Stay updated on the latest revisions and modifications in environmental policies.