GRAP 1 imposed in Delhi-NCR as AQI hits 244: what changes for you

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) imposed Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the whole of Delhi-NCR with immediate effect on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, after Delhi's air quality slipped into the "poor" category. Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) rose from 179, which is "moderate", on October 20 to 244 at 2 pm on October 21. Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology predicted that air quality would stay "poor" in the coming days, the commission said.

GRAP is a set of emergency steps that kicks in as air quality worsens. Stage 1 applies when the AQI is "poor" (201 to 300), Stage 2 when it is "very poor" (301 to 400), Stage 3 when it is "severe" (401 to 450) and Stage 4 when it is "severe plus" (above 450). Each stage adds stricter rules, and the restrictions of lower stages continue at higher ones. Stage 1 is the first warning of the winter pollution season, when falling temperatures, calm winds, crop-residue burning in neighbouring states and festival-season traffic combine to trap pollution over the region.

For young people in Delhi-NCR, Stage 1 is a signal to start planning around the air. Many students and young professionals run, cycle or play sport outdoors in the early morning and evening, which is when pollution near the ground is often high in winter. An AQI of 244 is classed as "poor", a level at which people with breathing problems may feel discomfort after long exposure, according to the official AQI scale. Simple steps help: checking the AQI on official apps before going out, shifting intense workouts indoors or to times when air quality is better, and keeping masks ready for days that worsen.

The rules themselves will change little in daily life at this stage. The tandoor ban will affect restaurants and street food stalls that use coal or wood, and the generator restriction matters for events and housing societies that rely on backup power. Construction sites face closer dust checks. If air quality worsens to "very poor", the stricter steps of Stage 2 could follow.

Residents have also been urged to follow the citizen charter for Stage 1, the set of voluntary steps the commission publishes for the public at each stage.

Short-term: Restaurants and eateries must stop using coal and firewood in tandoors, diesel generator use is curbed, and civic bodies will step up dust control and road cleaning across Delhi-NCR.

Long-term: Stage 1 often marks the start of a months-long pollution season. If the AQI keeps rising, tighter stages will follow, affecting construction work, vehicle use and outdoor activities for schools and colleges.

Who is affected: Everyone in Delhi-NCR, especially people who exercise or work outdoors, those with asthma or other breathing conditions, restaurant and food stall owners, construction firms and event organisers.

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