📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / NASA/GSFC/LaRC/JPL, MISR Team
Weather
Delhi AQI spikes to 223, ‘Bad’ category as GRAP Phase 1 set to start
✍️ Amar Ujala · Delhi
🗓 23 Oct 2026, 09:01 AM
👁 20
The capital recorded an AQI of 223 on Friday morning, placing it in the ‘bad’ bracket and prompting officials to roll out the first phase of the Graded Response Action Plan.
The Central Pollution Control Board reported that Delhi's air‑quality index reached 223 at 8 a.m. on Friday, classifying the capital's air as "bad" under the national grading system. An AQI above 200 signals a high level of pollutants that can affect the health of sensitive groups and the general public.
The reading reflects a sharp rise in particulate matter and other harmful gases across the National Capital Region, prompting the environment ministry to activate emergency measures.
Authorities announced that the first phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will be implemented immediately. The plan calls for stricter control of pollution‑generating activities in Delhi and adjoining districts, including tighter regulation of construction sites, diesel generators and other major emitters.
Health officials have advised residents to limit outdoor exposure, especially children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions, and to wear masks when venturing out.
The move follows similar temporary restrictions imposed during past smog episodes, aiming to bring the AQI down to safer levels within the coming days.
The reading reflects a sharp rise in particulate matter and other harmful gases across the National Capital Region, prompting the environment ministry to activate emergency measures.
Authorities announced that the first phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will be implemented immediately. The plan calls for stricter control of pollution‑generating activities in Delhi and adjoining districts, including tighter regulation of construction sites, diesel generators and other major emitters.
Health officials have advised residents to limit outdoor exposure, especially children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions, and to wear masks when venturing out.
The move follows similar temporary restrictions imposed during past smog episodes, aiming to bring the AQI down to safer levels within the coming days.