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VOL. I · EST. 11.2025 
SatyaDheesh
सत्याधीश
India's Ground Truth Record
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CAQM enforces Stage 3 action plan as Delhi-NCR enters hazardous environmental phase

GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims + Mains·

Environmental governance and pollution mitigation: a key GS3 topic regarding GRAP implementation.

Why in news

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) enforced Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan in Delhi-NCR due to hazardous air quality levels.

Background

The CAQM enforced Stage 3 measures including bans on non-essential construction and restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers. Stage IV is triggered if the Air Quality Index (AQI) breaches 450, involving school closures and commercial truck entry bans.

Facts for Prelims

  • BodyCAQM: Commission for Air Quality Management responsible for air quality in Delhi-NCR
  • FactStage IV action plan is triggered when AQI breaches 450
  • FactStage 3 restrictions include bans on non-essential construction and BS-III petrol/BS-IV diesel four-wheelers

Prelims practice question

At what Air Quality Index (AQI) level is the Stage IV action plan triggered under the Graded Response Action Plan?

  1. (a)600
  2. (b)300
  3. (c)500
  4. (d)450
Show answer

Answer: (d) 450 — The note states that Stage IV is triggered if the Air Quality Index (AQI) breaches 450.

For Mains

Q. Critically analyze the effectiveness of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in mitigating seasonal air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

  • Regulatory friction: Balancing industrial output with environmental mandates during peak pollution months
  • Enforcement gap: Difficulty in monitoring non-essential construction sites and vehicle compliance in high-density zones

Keywords: Air Quality Index · Graded Response Action Plan · Environmental Governance · Pollution Mitigation · Delhi-NCR

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