Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and Air Quality Index (AQI)

04.11.2025

1. Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and Air Quality Index (AQI)

Context

In November 2025, Delhi and nearby NCR regions recorded “very poor” to “severe” air quality levels, prompting judicial intervention and public concern. The Supreme Court directed authorities to adopt proactive, science-based strategies to prevent further deterioration.

About the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a regulatory framework to control air pollution through actions matched to pollution severity. Originating from the Supreme Court’s directives in MC Mehta v. Union of India, GRAP covers Delhi and adjoining NCR districts across Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.

Implementation and Objective:
 Introduced in 2017, GRAP functions under the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), in coordination with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and state pollution boards. It ensures region-specific, time-bound actions that intensify with worsening air quality, enabling structured emergency response.

Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)

The CAQM, established under a statutory Act, institutionalises unified air quality management across the NCR.

• Composition: The Chairperson must have 15+ years of environmental experience or 25 years in public administration.
   
• Mandate: It ensures coordination, scientific monitoring, and data-driven enforcement under parliamentary oversight, harmonising efforts across states.
   

Air Quality Index (AQI) and GRAP Stages

The Air Quality Index (AQI), developed by MoEFCC, simplifies pollution data for policymakers and citizens. It measures eight key pollutants: SO₂, NO₂, PM₁₀, PM₂.₅, CO, O₃, NH₃, and Pb. (Note: CO₂ is excluded.)

Current Status (2025): Delhi’s AQI at 421 falls under “Severe”, triggering Stage 3 restrictions.

Indicative Actions Under GRAP

• Stage 1 (Poor, 201–300): Ban on unregistered construction, use of anti-smog guns and sprinklers, and prohibition of open burning.
   
• Stage 2 (Very Poor, 301–400): Increased parking fees, promotion of CNG/electric transport, and ban on diesel generators except for essential services.
   
• Stage 3 (Severe, 401–450): Suspension of most construction, closure of non-PNG industries, and curbs on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles.
   
• Stage 4 (Severe Plus, 450+): School closures, Odd-Even scheme, 50% work-from-home policy, and ban on truck entry except essentials.
   

Challenges and Concerns

• Fragmented Enforcement: Uneven implementation across NCR states limits impact.
   
• Technological Limitations: Lack of real-time monitoring delays corrective action.
   
• Public Non-Compliance: Low participation despite awareness campaigns.
   
• Seasonal Focus: Winter-centric measures overlook year-round pollution from vehicles and waste burning.
   

Way Forward

1. Better Coordination: Strengthen inter-state cooperation under CAQM with a centralised response system.
    
2. Technology Adoption: Use AI-based forecasting, satellite monitoring, and real-time data sharing for predictive control.
    
3. Public Engagement: Foster community participation through awareness campaigns and citizen reporting mechanisms.
    
4. Sustainable Reforms:
    
   • Promote electric mobility and clean transport.
      
   • Expand green belts and dust-free roads.
      
   • Enforce waste management to prevent open burning.
      
   • Encourage clean industrial technologies and renewable energy.
      

Conclusion

The GRAP and AQI together form the foundation of Delhi-NCR’s air pollution management. While GRAP ensures swift, stage-wise interventions during pollution peaks, lasting improvement requires long-term planning in transport, waste, and energy sectors. The Supreme Court’s directions highlight the need for a collaborative, technology-driven, and citizen-centric approach to secure cleaner, healthier air for millions across the NCR.