Delhi AQI Deteriorates to 'Poor'; GRAP-1 Restrictions Enforced
Delhi AQI Deteriorates to 'Poor'; GRAP-1 Restrictions Enforced
IN · Published Oct 21, 2026
• Delhi's air quality has worsened, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) rising from 179 ('moderate') on 20 October to 244 ('poor') by 2 PM on 21 October
• This prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to implement Stage 1 measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the National Capital Region (NCR). The decision was made after reviewing air quality data, meteorological forecasts, and pollution levels. Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) suggest that the AQI is likely to remain in the 'poor' category in the coming days.

Impact & Risks

The worsening air quality poses health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. The 'poor' AQI level can cause breathing discomfort and exacerbate health issues. The restrictions under GRAP-1 aim to prevent further deterioration of air quality, but the current pollution levels already indicate a significant public health concern for residents of Delhi and the NCR.

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