The Commission for Air Quality Management invoked Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan across the National Capital Region on Monday as Delhi's air quality deteriorated to the "very poor" category for the first time this season, with the Air Quality Index reaching 324 at 4pm.
The decision followed a steady deterioration in Delhi's air quality over the past week. The AQI stood at 60 on Friday after heavy rain that washed away pollutants, rose to 117 (moderate) on October 31, and 261 (poor) on November 1, before reaching 324 on Monday. Of Delhi's 59 air quality monitoring stations, 58 provided data, with 36 recording "very poor" air quality and Jahangirpuri the only station in the "severe" category at an AQI of 417.
Meteorologist Navdeep Dahiya warned that unfavourable weather conditions, including northwesterly winds and calm conditions, were likely to persist for seven to 10 days, allowing emissions to accumulate in the atmosphere.
With Stage II restrictions in force, authorities intensified mechanical cleaning of roads, water sprinkling, and anti-smog gun deployment to control dust. Traffic police were deployed at busy roads and intersections to reduce congestion, while officials intensified checks for valid pollution-under-control certificates and enforced rules on older diesel and petrol vehicles.
Industries, brick kilns, and power plants faced stricter inspections to ensure compliance with pollution-control rules and use of approved fuels. Hotels, restaurants, and roadside eateries were directed not to use coal or firewood in tandoors and to switch to electricity or gas-based appliances.
The government increased the frequency of metro, RRTS, CNG, and electric bus services to reduce vehicular emissions, and encouraged offices to arrange shared transport for employees. The CAQM advised residents to use public transport or carpool, keep vehicles well-maintained, ensure valid PUC certificates, and switch off engines at traffic signals. Residents were also asked to avoid burning garbage, dispose of waste properly, limit the use of diesel generators, and refrain from bursting firecrackers. Violations could be reported through the 311, Green Delhi, and SAMEER apps.
Authorities ensured uninterrupted power supply to reduce dependence on diesel generators, whose use remained regulated except for specified emergency services. The CAQM invoked the measures with immediate effect as unfavourable weather conditions were likely to keep air quality in the "very poor" category over the coming days.
