Amid growing concerns over deteriorating air quality in the national capital, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has officially dismissed rumors about the implementation of GRAP-4 restrictions in Delhi. Social media platforms and search engines witnessed a significant surge in queries about GRAP-4 on Tuesday, with many users mistakenly believing that the highest stage of pollution control measures had been activated.
What CAQM Actually Said About GRAP Status
The air quality monitoring body issued a clear circular addressing the misinformation circulating across various media platforms. The CAQM explicitly stated that reports about GRAP-4 implementation are completely false and misleading. According to the official communication released on November 18, 2025, only Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan is currently in force across the entire National Capital Region.
The commission emphasized that stakeholders and the general public should rely solely on official updates and press releases issued by CAQM for accurate information about air quality measures. This clarification came after several news channels and digital media platforms circulated incorrect information about the invocation of Stage-IV restrictions starting from 8 AM on Tuesday.
Understanding GRAP-4: What Would It Mean for Delhi?
Had GRAP-4 been implemented, Delhi would have witnessed severe restrictions affecting daily life and economic activities. Under Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan, several stringent measures would come into effect:
- Complete ban on truck entry into Delhi, except for those transporting essential goods
- Prohibition of private commercial diesel and petrol vehicles registered outside Delhi
- Total stoppage of all construction and demolition activities
- Potential suspension of physical classes in schools and colleges
- Possible implementation of 50% attendance in government and private offices
- Emergency measures like odd-even vehicle rules and closure of non-essential commercial establishments
Current Situation: GRAP Stage 3 in Effect
With Stage 3 restrictions currently active, Delhi and the broader NCR region are experiencing significant but less severe measures compared to what GRAP-4 would impose. The persistent poor air quality has become a major health concern for residents, with reports suggesting that breathing Delhi's air is equivalent to smoking multiple cigarettes daily.
The confusion about GRAP stages emerged as Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) continued to remain in the severe category, prompting widespread speculation about stricter measures. However, the CAQM's clarification has put all rumors to rest, confirming that while the situation is serious, it hasn't yet reached the level requiring GRAP-4 implementation.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with the possibility of escalating measures if air quality conditions deteriorate further in the coming days.
