The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has reimposed Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-3) across the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) on January 16, 2026. This decision comes as the region's air quality has significantly deteriorated, entering the 'very poor' category. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi, which was recorded at 343 on Thursday, January 15, 2026, rose to 354 by 4 pm on Friday, January 16, 2026, showing an increasing trend. The CAQM's sub-committee acted as a proactive measure, citing forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). These forecasts indicated that slow wind speeds, a stable atmosphere, and other unfavorable meteorological conditions would lead to poor dispersion of pollutants, potentially pushing Delhi's average AQI beyond the 400-mark into the 'severe' category in the coming days. The re-enforcement of GRAP-3 means stricter restrictions are now in place, in addition to those under Stages I and II, which were already active. These measures include a ban on non-essential construction and demolition activities, such as earthwork, piling, open trenching, welding, painting, plastering, and tile/flooring work. Operations of ready-mix concrete plants, stone crushers, brick kilns, and mining activities are also prohibited. Furthermore, vehicular restrictions include a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers, non-essential diesel-powered medium goods vehicles, and inter-state diesel buses that do not meet CNG, electric, or BS-VI standards. Offices are permitted to operate with 50% staff, with others advised to work from home, and schools for younger children may shift to a hybrid learning mode. It is noteworthy that GRAP-III curbs had previously been lifted on January 2, 2026, following a temporary improvement in air quality. However, the consistent rise in pollution levels necessitated their reimposition to prevent further environmental and public health hazards in the capital.