The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has reimposed Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR with immediate effect after the region’s Air Quality Index (AQI) slipped into the ‘poor’ category on Wednesday.

The decision was based on the daily average AQI provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the CAQM stated. Under Stage I of GRAP, which is activated when AQI ranges between 201-300, 27 preventive actions are to be strictly implemented by all relevant agencies across NCR.

Pollution Control Boards (PCBs) of NCR states and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of Stage I measures. Meanwhile, the Sub-Committee on GRAP has urged citizens to cooperate and follow the Citizen Charter guidelines for improving air quality.

Earlier, on March 29, CAQM had revoked Stage I of GRAP after Delhi’s AQI improved to 153 (moderate category). However, the recent deterioration has prompted its reimplementation.

Authorities will continue to monitor air quality levels and take further action as needed to mitigate pollution in the region.

(With ANI inputs)