Delhi NCR’s air quality remains in the ‘very poor’ category, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 368 as of early January 17, 2026, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
This marks a slight increase from 354 the previous day, amid dense fog, cold wave conditions, and stagnant weather trapping pollutants.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reimposed Stage-III (GRAP-3) restrictions across Delhi-NCR on January 16, 2026, as a proactive measure.
This was triggered by the rising AQI trend (crossing 350 and entering ‘very poor’, with risks of slipping into ‘severe’ 401-450), unfavorable meteorological forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), and to prevent further deterioration.
GRAP-3 had been revoked earlier on January 2 after temporary improvements, but Stages I and II measures were already in place.
Key GRAP Stage-III Restrictions (in addition to lower stages):
Complete ban on non-essential construction and demolition activities (e.g., earthwork, piling, welding, painting, plastering, tiling, flooring).
Vehicle curbs: Ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers; restrictions on non-essential diesel medium goods vehicles; inter-state diesel buses not meeting CNG/electric/BS-VI norms barred (exemptions for essential services like emergency vehicles, public transport, etc.).
Other measures: Enhanced enforcement against polluting industries, dust control, and bans on certain diesel generators.
Exemptions apply to essential projects (infrastructure, healthcare, defense, metro/railways, sanitation) and some public utilities.
Dense fog has reduced visibility (e.g., to as low as 50 meters in places), causing flight delays at IGI Airport and worsening the smog. Several monitoring stations show variations, with some areas like Chandni Chowk and ITO hitting ‘severe’ levels (over 400), while others remain in ‘very poor’.
Authorities continue monitoring closely, with ongoing calls for public compliance to reduce local emissions. Stay indoors when possible, use masks outdoors, and limit exposure—especially vulnerable groups like children, elderly, and those with respiratory issues.
(With agency input)