GRAP Stage 1 in Delhi-NCR: Status, Rules & Vehicle Ban Today
Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is enforced when the Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi falls between 201 and 300 ('Poor'). Focuses on preventive anti-dust measures, strict enforcement of PUC norms, and industrial emission monitoring.
Key Rules at a Glance (GRAP Stage 1)
Vehicle Restrictions: All private vehicles (BS-III, BS-IV, BS-VI, EVs, CNG) are legally permitted to ply. Heavy scrutiny and spot fines are issued for visibly polluting vehicles or vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate.
Violation Penalty: ₹10,000 fine for driving without a valid PUC certificate under Section 190(2) of the Motor Vehicles Act. Spot fines for uncovered transport of C&D material.
Construction Status: Construction activities are allowed subject to mandatory anti-dust guidelines: continuous water sprinkling, covering construction material, and anti-smog guns on sites >5,000 sq.m.
Schools & Workplaces: Schools, colleges, and offices operate normally without restrictions. Outdoor morning assemblies may be curtailed on hazy days.
Permitted vs. Prohibited Activities Under GRAP Stage 1
Detailed breakdown of what is allowed versus banned across Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, Ghaziabad, and Faridabad during this stage.
Allowed / Permitted Activities
Fully permitted to ply across Delhi-NCR provided they possess a valid PUC certificate.
Permitted without any restrictions.
Permitted with strict compliance to dust mitigation norms and water sprinkling.
Normal physical classes continue across all grades.
Regular operating hours with encouragement for carpooling and metro commute.
Prohibited / Banned Activities
Strict prohibition on open burning of municipal solid waste, biomass, and dry leaves.
Transporting sand, cement, or rubble without proper tarp covers is strictly penalized.
Vehicles emitting visible smoke are impounded or fined on the spot by Delhi Traffic Police.
Industrial units operating on unapproved fuels like tire oil or unrefined coal face immediate closure.
Vehicular Regulations & Fines
Motor Vehicles Act enforcement
All private vehicles (BS-III, BS-IV, BS-VI, EVs, CNG) are legally permitted to ply. Heavy scrutiny and spot fines are issued for visibly polluting vehicles or vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate.
Challan & Penalty:
₹10,000 fine for driving without a valid PUC certificate under Section 190(2) of the Motor Vehicles Act. Spot fines for uncovered transport of C&D material.
Construction & Demolition (C&D)
Dust and excavation curbs
Construction activities are allowed subject to mandatory anti-dust guidelines: continuous water sprinkling, covering construction material, and anti-smog guns on sites >5,000 sq.m.
Exempted Infrastructure Projects:
- All private BS-III Petrol, BS-IV Diesel, and BS-VI vehicles
- Public transportation (Delhi Metro, DTC and cluster electric/CNG buses)
- Essential government, healthcare, and emergency services
Citizen Advisory & Health Recommendations
Medical specialists urge vulnerable populations (children, senior citizens, and patients with asthma or heart conditions) to exercise special caution during GRAP Stage 1 conditions:
- •Ensure your vehicle's PUC certificate is active to avoid ₹10,000 penalties.
- •Turn off your vehicle engine at red lights (Red Light On, Gaadi Off).
- •Report open burning or uncovered construction on 311 or Green Delhi apps.
Frequently Asked Questions About GRAP Stage 1
Clear answers to the most common queries regarding GRAP Stage 1 restrictions, vehicle penalties, and compliance in Delhi-NCR.
Explore All GRAP Stages & Directives
Want to review past official CAQM directives?
Browse chronological orders, AQI triggers, and historical notifications.