Fri Jan 03 14:07:45 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Reinstates Strict Pollution Controls as Air Quality Deteriorates

**NEW DELHI** – Delhi and its surrounding areas have reimposed stricter pollution control measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage III, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CQAM) announced Friday. The move follows a worsening of air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 350.

The AQI reached 371 by 4:00 PM Friday, triggered by dense fog, low mixing height, and unfavorable meteorological conditions. The CQAM, citing weather forecasts, expects the AQI to remain in the “severe” range for several days.

This action is in accordance with a Supreme Court directive mandating the implementation of GRAP Stage III measures when the AQI surpasses 350, and Stage IV measures when it exceeds 400. Both Stage III and IV were initially activated on December 16th when the AQI hit 401.

GRAP outlines four stages of emergency measures based on AQI severity: Stage 1 (poor, 201-300), Stage 2 (very poor, 301-400), Stage 3 (severe, 401-450), and Stage 4 (severe+, >450). The reinstatement of Stage III restrictions signals a serious concern over the deteriorating air quality in the Delhi-NCR region.

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