Delhi-NCR activates Stage III pollution restrictions
The Commission for Air Quality Management activated Stage III of the GRAP response plan across Delhi-NCR on 6 November 2026. The decision tightens restrictions as air quality deteriorates ahead of Diwali.
The Indian Express reports a 24-hour average air quality index of 382, in the “very poor” category and close to the threshold of 400 for “severe” air quality. That regional measure should be distinguished from individual monitoring stations’ readings.
The response includes restrictions on construction and certain vehicles, as well as hybrid schooling arrangements through Class 5. It aims to curb emissions across the capital region; activating it does not yet demonstrate an improvement in air quality.