New Delhi, Oct. 21 -- The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Wednesday invoked Stage-I measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the National Capital Region (NCR), with immediate effect, following a sharp deterioration in Delhi's air quality.

Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) rose from 179 (moderate) on 20 October to 244 (poor) at 2pm on 21 October, according to the CAQM.

The sub-committee on GRAP took the decision after reviewing the prevailing air quality situation and weather forecasts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). The forecasts indicate that Delhi's AQI is likely to remain 'poor' over the coming days.

The panel directed all ...