Delhi’s air quality index touched 195 on October 5, inching toward the “poor” mark of 200 that triggers the first stage of the Graded Response Action Plan. Here’s what GRAP means and what changes at each stage.

GRAP is a set of emergency measures that kick in automatically as pollution worsens. Stage 1, at AQI 201-300, bans coal and firewood in eateries, restricts dust-generating construction activity, and orders proper waste disposal. Stage 2, at “very poor” levels, adds limits on diesel generator sets and ramps up parking fees.

Stage 3, triggered by “severe” AQI of 401-450, halts most construction and demolition, closes brick kilns and stone crushers, and bans BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles. Stage 4, above 450, stops truck entry into Delhi, closes schools and may order offices to work from home.

The October 1 average of 166 was Delhi’s worst start to October since 2022. Hotspots like Mundka hit 281 on October 4. With no rain forecast this week, GRAP Stage 1 could be just days away.