As Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) deteriorated to “very poor” category (reaching 324), the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the national capital.
“The Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi, which was observed 117 (’Moderate’ Category) on 31.10.2026, has exhibited a sharp rise with AQI of 261 (’Poor’ Category) on 01.11.2026 and has further increased to 324 (’Very Poor’ Category) on 02.11.2026 owing to unfavorable meteorological conditions. ,” the CAQM said in a statement.
With air quality expected to remain “very poor” over the coming days, tight measures are being enforced to mitigate air pollution.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s allowed, what’s banned and how public transport and office timings are adjusted under the Stage 2 restrictions.
What are GRAP pollution curbs?
GRAP is a set of emergency measures that kick in to prevent further deterioration of air quality once it reaches a certain threshold.
The first stage, GRAP-1, kicks in when the AQI is between 201 and 300; the second stage, GRAP-2, is invoked when the AQI is between 301 and 400; GRAP-3 kicks in between 401 and 500; and GRAP-4 is invoked when the AQI is more than 450.
With GRAP-2 restrictions in place, authorities will intensify measures to curb dust pollution and promote public transport. The measures include regular mechanical road cleaning, water sprinkling, and the use of anti-smog guns to reduce dust. Parking fees will also be increased as part of the measures
What Is allowed under GRAP Stage 2?
To facilitate transport while keeping air pollution under control, specific vehicles meeting emission standards are permitted on Delhi roads.
1. Delhi-registered petrol and diesel cars meeting BS-IV and above standards (with a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate or PUC). Electric vehicles (EVs) and CNG-powered cars are fully allowed.
2. Intra-state and inter-city buses running on electric, CNG or BS-VI diesel engines.
3. Light, Medium, and Heavy Commercial Vehicles (LCVs/MCVs/HCVs) that comply with BS-VI norms, CNG or electric power, provided they hold a valid PUC.
4. Ambulances, fire brigade tenders and police vehicles are completely exempted.
What is not allowed under GRAP Stage 2?
Under Stage 2 of GRAP, the NCR State governments are mandated to enhance vehicle parking fees to discourage use of private vehicles.
The GNCTD (Delhi government) and NCR State governments also have “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 Buddha Nagar”.
Authorities have restricted:
1. Delhi-registered petrol/diesel vehicles of BS-III and below standards.
2. Petrol and diesel cars registered outside Delhi that are BS-IV and below are barred from entering the capital.
3. BS-IV and older intra-city/inter-city buses and commercial vehicles are strictly prohibited.
4. Heavy trucks not destined for Delhi may divert via the peripheral expressways.
5. Any vehicle lacking a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is not allowed.
6. Open burning of garbage, leaves and municipal solid waste.
Considering the restrictions on vehicles, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has decided to run additional trips on weekdays. “This is to encourage people to use public transport rather than their private vehicles and help mitigate pollution,” said a senior Metro official.
Key commuter guidelines
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Always ensure your vehicle has an updated PUC certificate before driving.
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Check Delhi Police traffic advisories for planned diversions and traffic updates, or via the Delhi Traffic Police helpline (1095)/(011-25844444)
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Switch to public transport or carpooling whenever possible to help mitigate air pollution in the national capital.
In September, the CAQM modified the GRAP framework, bringing changes like the extension of restrictions on the plying of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel or below-standard LMVs (four-wheelers) to Sonipat in Haryana under GRAP-3.
Earlier, these restrictions were limited to only Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Budh Nagar.
(With PTI inputs)
Published – November 04, 2026 06:13 am IST
