Delhi air quality reached the 'very poor' category for the first time in the 2024 winter season. This status triggers Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

Delhi air quality typically declines between November and February. Cooler temperatures and low wind speeds trap pollutants during this period. Vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and agricultural waste burning in neighboring states drive pollution spikes. Delhi reached the "very poor" air quality category on February 11, 2026. The city recorded its worst daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 354 in November 2025.

1. The Commission for Air Quality Management invoked Stage 2 of the "Graded Response Action Plan" on November 2, 2026. The commission implemented these measures to address rising pollution levels. These rules mandate specific restrictions to reduce emissions during periods of hazardous air quality.

2. Stage 2 measures include higher vehicle parking fees and staggered work hours for public offices and municipal bodies. The measures aim to reduce traffic congestion and vehicle emissions during peak hours. The regulations apply to Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar.

3. The plan mandates more frequent mechanical and vacuum-based road sweeping. It also requires water sprinkling to suppress dust. Officials will increase inspections at construction and demolition sites. These checks verify compliance with dust control standards.

4. Resident Welfare Associations must provide electric heaters to service personnel under the new directives.

5. The Commission for Air Quality Management ordered 20 additional Delhi Metro trips on weekdays.

1. Three air quality monitoring stations in Delhi recorded severe pollution levels above 400 on November 2, 2026. Jahangirpuri reached 447. Rohini hit 420. Punjab Bagh recorded 415. Jahangirpuri reported the highest concentration among these sites.

2. The Supreme Court authorized the manufacture, sale, and use of certified green firecrackers for two days during the Diwali festival. The festival takes place on November 8, 2026.

3. Late monsoon rains delayed the harvest in Punjab and Haryana. The peak stubble-burning season shifted to late October and November 2026.

4. Authorities banned the use of coal and firewood, including in hotel and restaurant tandoors. The directive also prohibits diesel generator sets. Emergency and essential services remain exempt from this rule.