Delhi AQI: GRAP 4 Imposed Across NCR As Air Quality Turns Severe At 450; What's Allowed And What's Not

Delhi AQI: Amid rising air pollution levels in the national capital, the Delhi government on Saturday announced the enforcement of GRAP Stage 4 restrictions across Delhi-NCR. The move was taken after air quality showed a sharp upward trend through the day.

According to official data, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 431 at 4 PM. By 6 PM, the AQI rose further to 441, indicating worsening air conditions. Following this, stricter measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) were brought into force with immediate effect.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) said all actions prescribed under GRAP Stage 4, which applies to ‘Severe+’ air quality, have now been activated across the entire NCR. These measures come in addition to the restrictions already in place under GRAP Stages 1, 2 and 3.

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Keeping in view the prevailing trend of air quality and in an effort to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region, the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP decides to invoke all actions as envisaged under Stage-IV of the extant GRAP – ‘Severe+’ Air Quality (DELHI AQI >… pic.twitter.com/I7cIDeTcss

— ANI (@ANI) December 13, 2025

Delhi GRAP 4

Earlier on Saturday morning, authorities had implemented GRAP Stage 3 after pollution levels crossed the severe threshold, with the AQI touching 401. However, unfavourable weather conditions and continued emissions led to a further decline in air quality as the day progressed.

Officials cited vehicle emissions, paddy-straw burning, firecrackers and other local pollution sources as major contributors to the seasonal spike in pollution. Winter weather conditions have also reduced pollutant dispersion.

Key Restrictions Under GRAP-4 In Delhi-NCR: What's Allowed And What Not

Construction And Industrial Activities

- Complete ban on construction and demolition activities.

- Exception allowed only for projects of public importance such as railways, airports, defence facilities and hospitals.

- Closure of stone crushers across NCR.

- All mining and related activities to remain shut.

- C&D activities banned even for linear public projects like highways, flyovers, pipelines and power transmission works.

Vehicle Restrictions

- Ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel light motor vehicles in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Noida.

- Exception for vehicles modified for persons with disabilities.

- Delhi-registered BS-IV and below diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles banned, except those carrying essential commodities or providing essential services.

- Entry of trucks into Delhi stopped, except for essential services.

- LNG, CNG, electric and BS-VI diesel trucks allowed.

- Non-Delhi registered diesel LCVs (BS-IV and below) barred from entering the city, except for essential services.

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Offices and Educational Institutions

- NCR state governments and the Delhi government may shift physical classes for Classes VI to IX and Class XI to online mode.

- Offices may operate with 50 per cent staff strength, with the remaining employees working from home.

- Central government offices may also consider work-from-home options.

- States may take additional steps, including closure of colleges and non-emergency commercial activities.