Archive · 9 Nov 2025
Delhi Air Quality Improves, Stage 3 Restrictions Avoided
The air in Delhi is not as bad as it was, so the people in charge decided not to put on even tougher rules for now.
They have a plan with different levels, and they were thinking about starting the third level, which stops some building work and makes young kids learn from home or online.
But because the air got a little cleaner on Sunday and they think it might stay that way, they will keep the rules they already have.
They are still watching the air quality closely, though.
The plan has four levels of rules depending on how dirty the air is.
Dirty air in Delhi during winter happens because of cars, burning crops, fireworks, and the weather.
Delhi's air quality improved on Sunday, preventing the implementation of Stage 3 Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) curbs.
The CAQM sub-committee reviewed the situation and decided to continue with Stage 1 and Stage 2 measures in the National Capital Region.
Delhi's average AQI improved from 391 at 10 am to 365 by 5 pm on Sunday.
Forecasts predict air quality to remain in the 'very poor' category in the coming days.
Stage 3 restrictions would have included a ban on non-essential construction and a shift to hybrid/online classes for young children.
- Who
- The Commission for Air Quality Management's (CAQM) sub-committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), India Meteorological Department (IMD), and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
- What
- Delhi's air quality showed improvement, leading the CAQM to decide against implementing stricter Stage 3 curbs under the GRAP for now. Measures under Stages 1 and 2 will continue.
- When
- Sunday, with forecasts indicating continued 'very poor' air quality in the coming days.
- Where
- Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).
- Why
- The decision to avoid Stage 3 restrictions was based on the improving trend in Delhi's air quality and favorable forecasts, despite it remaining in the 'very poor' category.
Action Taken
Stricter Curbs
Current Measures
Action Taken
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is continuing with measures under Stages 1 and 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the National Capital Region.
Stricter Curbs
The CAQM decided against invoking Stage 3 restrictions, which include a ban on non-essential construction, shifting primary school classes to hybrid/online mode, and restrictions on certain vehicle types.
- Delhi Hourly Average AQI (Sunday, 10 am)
- 391 (Very Poor)
- Delhi Hourly Average AQI (Sunday, 4 pm)
- 370 (Very Poor)
- Delhi Hourly Average AQI (Sunday, 5 pm)
- 365 (Very Poor)
- GRAP Stage 3 AQI Threshold
- 401-450 (Severe)
- GRAP Stage 4 AQI Threshold
- Above 450 (Severe Plus)
