GRAP Stage 2 in Delhi-NCR: Status, Rules & Vehicle Ban Today
Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is enforced when Delhi's average AQI enters the 301–400 range ('Very Poor'). Enforces regulated use of diesel generators, enhanced parking fees to discourage private car usage, and intensified mechanical road sweeping.
Key Rules at a Glance (GRAP Stage 2)
Vehicle Restrictions: Private BS-III Petrol and BS-IV Diesel cars are still permitted to ply, but municipal authorities hike parking fees by up to 2x-4x to discourage non-essential car trips. DTC and Delhi Metro increase trip frequency to facilitate public transit.
Violation Penalty: Substantial environmental compensation fines imposed by DPCC/CPCB for operating unauthorized diesel generator sets without retrofitted emission devices.
Construction Status: Dust-generating construction activities are restricted during peak traffic hours. Continuous mist guns and heavy mechanical sweeping are mandatory around project perimeters.
Schools & Workplaces: Schools remain open, but the Directorate of Education advises against holding outdoor sports activities or prolonged morning assemblies in open grounds.
Permitted vs. Prohibited Activities Under GRAP Stage 2
Detailed breakdown of what is allowed versus banned across Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, Ghaziabad, and Faridabad during this stage.
Allowed / Permitted Activities
Permitted to ply without ban, though higher municipal parking fees apply.
Full freedom of movement; encouraged across all NCR transport routes.
Permitted only for emergency services, railway/metro stations, and healthcare facilities.
Permitted provided continuous anti-smog guns and water sprinklers operate at site boundaries.
Prohibited / Banned Activities
Ban on operating DG sets >19 kW without dual-fuel kits or approved retrofitted emission devices (RECD).
Use of coal or firewood in open tandoors or eateries is strictly prohibited.
Manual dry sweeping is halted; replaced by vacuum sweeping and treated water sprinkling.
Vehicular Regulations & Fines
Motor Vehicles Act enforcement
Private BS-III Petrol and BS-IV Diesel cars are still permitted to ply, but municipal authorities hike parking fees by up to 2x-4x to discourage non-essential car trips. DTC and Delhi Metro increase trip frequency to facilitate public transit.
Challan & Penalty:
Substantial environmental compensation fines imposed by DPCC/CPCB for operating unauthorized diesel generator sets without retrofitted emission devices.
Construction & Demolition (C&D)
Dust and excavation curbs
Dust-generating construction activities are restricted during peak traffic hours. Continuous mist guns and heavy mechanical sweeping are mandatory around project perimeters.
Exempted Infrastructure Projects:
- DG sets supplying uninterrupted power to emergency healthcare, sewage plants, and Delhi Metro operations
- All BS-III petrol, BS-IV diesel, BS-VI and electric personal passenger cars
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 2 conditions:
- •Use public transport (Delhi Metro or DTC electric buses) instead of private cars.
- •Avoid outdoor exercise and jogging during early mornings and late evenings when smog settles near ground level.
- •Change or clean home air purifier filters regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions About GRAP Stage 2
Clear answers to the most common queries regarding GRAP Stage 2 restrictions, vehicle penalties, and compliance in Delhi-NCR.
Explore All GRAP Stages & Directives
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