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Weather
Delhi’s AQI spikes to 451 ahead of Diwali, GRAP‑II restrictions imposed across NCR
✍️ The Economic Times
🗓 04 Nov 2026, 02:32 AM
👁 16
The capital’s air quality index surged to 451 as Diwali approaches, prompting authorities to enforce GRAP‑II emission curbs across the National Capital Region.
Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index of 451 on the day leading up to Diwali, indicating hazardous pollution levels. The spike places the city in the worst‑air‑quality bracket, raising health concerns for residents and visitors alike.
In response, the Delhi government activated the Graded Response Action Plan – Phase II (GRAP‑II). The measures include a ban on construction activities, halting of diesel generator usage, and restrictions on the movement of heavy vehicles within the NCR.
The curbs are expected to remain in force until the air quality improves, with officials monitoring the situation closely and urging the public to limit outdoor exposure, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
Environmental experts have warned that the combination of winter weather patterns and firecracker preparations for Diwali can exacerbate particulate matter concentrations, making the GRAP‑II response critical for public health.
Authorities have also advised citizens to use N‑95 masks, keep windows closed, and rely on indoor air purifiers where possible, while the Pollution Control Board continues real‑time monitoring of pollutant levels across the region.
In response, the Delhi government activated the Graded Response Action Plan – Phase II (GRAP‑II). The measures include a ban on construction activities, halting of diesel generator usage, and restrictions on the movement of heavy vehicles within the NCR.
The curbs are expected to remain in force until the air quality improves, with officials monitoring the situation closely and urging the public to limit outdoor exposure, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
Environmental experts have warned that the combination of winter weather patterns and firecracker preparations for Diwali can exacerbate particulate matter concentrations, making the GRAP‑II response critical for public health.
Authorities have also advised citizens to use N‑95 masks, keep windows closed, and rely on indoor air purifiers where possible, while the Pollution Control Board continues real‑time monitoring of pollutant levels across the region.