Pollution Alert: Delhi Implements GRAP-II, Bans Older Vehicles From Nov 1

Delhi is grappling with a severe air quality situation, with most morning hours on Wednesday registering in the ‘very poor’ and ‘poor’ AQI brackets. Consequently, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP II), escalating control measures. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that several parts of the city experienced AQI levels above 300, classified as ‘very poor’. Bawana recorded the highest AQI at 322, followed by RK Puram (308), Anand Vihar (307), ITO (306), and Ashok Vihar (302). Dwarka Sector 8 (298) and India Gate (282) were in the ‘poor’ category, indicating widespread air pollution. Authorities are actively implementing measures like water sprinkling in high-pollution areas to curb dust. A significant regulatory change is set to take effect on November 1, 2025: a ban on non-BS-VI compliant commercial vehicles entering Delhi. This ban will impact light, medium, and heavy goods vehicles registered outside the National Capital Territory, including those powered by CNG, LNG, and electricity. A transitional period is provided for non-BS-VI vehicles registered in Delhi, allowing their entry until October 31, 2026. The Delhi government is also exploring advanced solutions, having conducted two cloud seeding operations. These trials are a scientific attempt to induce rainfall and alleviate air pollution, with ongoing evaluation to inform future air quality management strategies.