Delhi faces its worst air quality crisis as authorities invoke the most stringent emergency measures under Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). With the Air Quality Index (AQI) breaching the 450-mark and reaching severe levels, the national capital is implementing unprecedented restrictions to protect public health.
Understanding GRAP-IV: The Most Stringent Stage
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a tiered emergency response framework approved by the Supreme Court to combat air pollution in Delhi-NCR. Stage-IV is invoked when the AQI exceeds 450, indicating a ‘Severe+’ air quality emergency. On December 13, 2025, authorities activated all measures under Stage-IV as Delhi’s AQI reached 460, marking one of the worst air quality events of the season.
Key aspects of GRAP-IV include:
- Complete ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and neighboring districts (Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar)
- 50% work-from-home (WFH) mandatory for all government offices
- Closure of schools except for Classes 10 and 12, with hybrid classes for remaining grades
- Ban on construction and demolition activities
- Restrictions on heavy vehicles and inter-state buses
Critical Health Impacts and AQI Levels
Delhi’s air quality has reached hazardous levels with multiple monitoring stations recording AQI values in the ‘severe’ range:
- Shadipur: AQI 388 (among the lowest readings)
- 38 of 39 monitoring stations: ‘Severe’ category
- Overall Delhi AQI: 460 (as of December 14, 8 AM)
An AQI above 400 is classified as hazardous and constitutes a public health emergency. At these levels, the general population is expected to experience serious health effects including:
- Respiratory problems and bronchitis
- Asthma and lung function impairment
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Premature death in individuals with pre-existing health conditions
Vulnerable groups including children, elderly, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions face significantly elevated health risks.
Root Causes of the Winter Pollution Crisis
Delhi’s severe air pollution during winter months is driven by multiple factors:
- Low wind speed and stagnant atmospheric conditions
- Temperature inversion preventing pollution dispersion
- Crop burning in neighboring states (Punjab, Haryana)
- Vehicular emissions and industrial pollution
- Construction dust and traffic congestion
The convergence of these factors creates a ‘perfect storm’ for air pollution, making winter the most challenging season for Delhi’s air quality.
Public Health Recommendations During GRAP-IV
Authorities and health experts recommend the following precautions:
- Limit outdoor activities, especially for vulnerable populations
- Use N95 or N99 respiratory masks when outdoors
- Install HEPA filters in homes and maintain indoor air quality
- Avoid strenuous exercise outdoors
- Increase water and fluid intake
- Consult healthcare providers for respiratory symptoms
- Keep emergency medications readily available
Governmental and Environmental Initiatives
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) continues implementing multi-pronged strategies including strict enforcement of vehicle bans, construction restrictions, and regular air quality monitoring across the NCR region.
Conclusion: A Call for Collective Action
Delhi’s GRAP-IV activation underscores the severity of the air pollution crisis and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions. While immediate restrictions protect public health during critical periods, long-term remedies require sustained effort across multiple sectors including transportation, energy, agriculture, and urban development.
Citizens are urged to stay informed about air quality through daily AQI updates, comply with GRAP restrictions, and adopt personal protective measures. As weather conditions change and wind patterns improve, there is hope that air quality will gradually recover in the coming weeks. However, addressing the root causes of winter pollution remains essential for sustainable environmental protection and public health in the Delhi-NCR region.
Stay safe, stay informed, and prioritize your health during this air quality emergency.
