CAQM imposes GRAP 1 restrictions as Delhi AQI rises to 244
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims + Mains·
Air pollution management and emergency response protocols: a key GS3 Environment and Ecology topic.
Why in news
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) imposed GRAP 1 restrictions in the National Capital Region after Delhi's AQI rose to 244.
Background
The AQI in Delhi rose from 179 on 20.10.2026 to 244 at 02:00 PM on 21.10.2026. Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced an 11-point plan involving 608 anti-smog guns and 1,150 mist-spray units.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyCAQM: Commission for Air Quality Management
- FactDelhi AQI reached 244 at 02:00 PM on 21.10.2026
- FactThe 11-point plan includes 608 anti-smog guns and 1,150 mist-spray units
- PlaceNational Capital Region (NCR)
Prelims practice question
With reference to the air quality management measures in the NCR, consider the following statements:
- The 11-point plan involves the deployment of 1,150 anti-smog guns.
- The measures were implemented in the National Capital Region.
- The CAQM imposed GRAP 1 restrictions after Delhi's AQI rose to 244.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)3 only
- (b)1 and 2 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only — Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: The plan includes 608 anti-smog guns and 1,150 mist-spray units.
For Mains
Q. Evaluate the effectiveness of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in mitigating seasonal air pollution in the National Capital Region.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Institutional coordination: Challenges in synchronizing multi-agency responses under CAQM mandates
- Infrastructure gap: Limitations of mechanical mist-spraying versus source-based emission reductions
Keywords: Air Quality Index · Graded Response Action Plan · Integrated Command and Control Centre · Pollution Mitigation
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.