Delhi Implements Stage-III Pollution Controls Amid Very Poor Air Quality

The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas invoked Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on November 7, 2026, after Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 382, categorized as very poor. The emergency measures include a nine-point action plan that bans non-essential construction and demolition activities, such as excavation and road construction, and restricts industrial operations.

Vehicular restrictions have intensified as part of the city's Winter Action Plan. The government prohibited BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel four-wheelers within the National Capital Region. Additionally, the Delhi Transport Department implemented an annual ban from November 1 to January 31 on non-Delhi-registered commercial goods vehicles and buses that do not meet BS-VI emission standards. To enforce these rules, 250 personnel were deployed at major entry points, including the Singhu and Ghazipur borders.

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Sirsa warned that dropping wind speeds are expected to worsen air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management noted that unfavorable meteorological conditions and upcoming Diwali celebrations, combined with stubble burning, could push pollution levels into the severe category.