Delhi AQI: i As of May 19, 2026, Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) has reached a concerning level of 208, categorizing the air as ‘poor’. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated Stage-I measures of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the National Capital Region (NCR).
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) have forecasted that the air quality will likely remain in this range in the coming days. This has prompted authorities to enforce immediate actions under the GRAP framework to prevent further deterioration.
Stage-I of GRAP focuses on reducing pollution from primary sources such as dust, vehicles, and industrial emissions. Key restrictions include mandatory dust control at construction sites, bans on open burning, and restrictions on diesel generators except for emergencies.
Authorities are intensifying anti-pollution measures and maintaining strict vigilance. Citizens are encouraged to adhere to the GRAP Stage-I citizen charter, which includes switching off vehicle engines at red lights and reporting pollution via designated apps.
The implementation of these measures is crucial to curbing the pollution levels in Delhi, with enforcement actions planned against non-compliant industries and thermal power plants within 300 kilometers of the capital.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, May 20, 2026
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