GRAP-4 Pollution Curbs Activated in Delhi-NCR as AQI Surges
Delhi's air quality crisis continued on January 18, 2026, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 439 at 7 a.m., according to the Central Pollution Control Board. The AQI had worsened overnight from 432 at 10 p.m. on January 17. Areas such as Anand Vihar and Punjabi Bagh reported AQI levels of 489 and 476, respectively, all classified as 'severe'. The Commission for Air Quality Management has reinstated Stage-IV measures under the Graded Response Action Plan to address the situation. Cold wave conditions and dense fog have further complicated visibility, with minimum temperatures ranging between 5 and 7°C. Authorities have advised citizens to limit outdoor activities and adhere to health advisories due to the hazardous air quality.
Published 2 days ago • 17 Jan 2026, 08:44 PM IST