Delhi Activates GRAP Stage 1 Amid Poor Air Quality

Delhi's air quality has deteriorated to the 'poor' category, prompting the activation of Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes dust mitigation at construction sites, proper waste management, and road cleaning, along with bans on open burning of waste, limits on diesel generators, and restrictions on coal or firewood at eateries. The city recorded a 24-hour average AQI of 224, attributed to factors like stubble burning, Dussehra festivities, and seasonal weather changes. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is closely monitoring the situation and may escalate to further GRAP stages if conditions worsen. Regions like Gurgaon have reported moderate air quality, but changes in wind direction are expected to affect AQI levels adversely. Efforts are being made to control emissions from vehicles and industries as part of the action plan.