Delhi-NCR Air Pollution: GRAP-IV Reimposed as Air Quality Deteriorates
Delhi-NCR is once again under the most stringent pollution control measures as the Commission for Air Quality management (CAQM) reimposed Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Saturday, following a sharp decline in air quality to ‘severe’ levels. This action follows the implementation of GRAP-III just one day prior, signaling a rapidly worsening environmental situation that has plagued the region for months.
The decision to activate GRAP-IV comes after air quality readings surpassed an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 450, entering the ‘severe+’ category. according to the commission, all measures outlined in the earlier GRAP stages – I, II, and III – remain in affect, as detailed in the modified plan issued on November 21, 2025.
Vehicle Restrictions Under GRAP-IV
Contrary to potential concerns, GRAP-IV does not mandate a complete ban on private vehicle movement. Rather, restrictions are strategically focused on vehicle emission standards and fuel types. Vehicles that meet prescribed emission norms are permitted to operate, while older, more polluting vehicles face stricter limitations. Specifically, BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles are now prohibited from operating within the Delhi-NCR region, with the exception of those providing essential services.
The CAQM imposed GRAP-IV due to consistently worsening air quality, reaching ‘severe+’ levels with an AQI exceeding 450. The plan builds upon previous stages, maintaining all prior restrictions while adding new measures targeting vehicle emissions. The reimposition of GRAP-IV, after a brief lifting in late December, underscores the cyclical nature of Delhi-NCR’s air pollution crisis. The CAQM’s actions are a direct response to protect public health from the immediate dangers of hazardous air.
The implementation of GRAP-IV underscores the persistent challenges in managing air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region. While the plan has been previously lifted – most recently in late December – the recurring need for its activation highlights the complex interplay of factors contributing to the crisis, including seasonal weather patterns, industrial emissions, and vehicular traffic.
The CAQM’s swift response demonstrates a commitment to mitigating the health risks associated with severe air pollution. However, long-term solutions will require sustained efforts to address the root causes of the problem and promote cleaner, more sustainable practices across all sectors.
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