Under the revised schedule which was finalized on November 21 after consultations with stakeholders, several pollution-control measures have been shifted from higher GRAP stages to lower ones, thus stricter restriction will now be invoked at lower alert levels.

What restrictions will be imposed under revised GRAP schedule?

Restrictions which were previously imposed under GRAP Stage II ('Poor' AQI 201-300), will now be invoked at first stage itself, including ensuring uninterrupted power supply to discourage the use of diesel generator sets, deploying additional personnel to streamline traffic at congestion-prone points, issuing pollution alerts through newspapers, TV and radio, and augmenting CNG and electric public transport fleets with higher service frequency and differential fares to promote off-peak travel.

Similarly, curbs which were earlier slapped under GRAP Stage III ('very poor' AQI 301-400), will now be enforced at Stage II. This includes staggering working hours for government offices in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddh Nagar. The Centre may also decide on staggered timings for its offices in the region.

Additionally, the measures which were previously invoked at Stage IV ('severe+') will now be applicable at Stage III ('severe' AQI 401-450), which include allowing public, municipal and private offices to operate with 50% staff while the remainder work from home. The Centre may also implement work-from-home provisions for its employees.

When will revised GRAP be enforced?

CAQM said the changes were based on scientific assessments, expert recommendations and past experience. All implementing agencies across NCR have been directed to enforce the revised schedule immediately.

Meanwhile, Delhi air quality remained in the 'very poor' category at 9 am on Saturday, with the city's average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 360, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).