The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect, following a deterioration in air quality to the ‘severe’ category.

According to an official order, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 276 on January 28, 2025, and rose to 365 by 4:00 PM on January 29, 2025. The increase has been attributed to variable wind direction, calm conditions, smog, low mixing heights, and reduced ventilation for pollutant dispersion. Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) indicate similar conditions in the coming days.

The order states that Stage-III measures are to be implemented when the AQI exceeds 350 as a precautionary step. If the AQI crosses 400, Stage-IV measures will be reintroduced. All implementing agencies have been directed to maintain strict vigilance and intensify measures under the existing GRAP schedule. Residents have been urged to adhere to the citizen charter outlined for Stage-III.

Delhi’s AQI was recorded at 327 at 8:00 AM on Wednesday, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). On Tuesday, the air quality was categorized as ‘poor’ with an AQI of 258.

The AQI classification system defines levels as follows: 0-50 (good), 51-100 (satisfactory), 101-200 (moderate), 201-300 (poor), 301-400 (very poor), and 401-500 (severe).