‘No, everything is not okay…’: Ixigo CEO slams Delhiites as GRAP III comes into effect. This is what is and is not allowed

As Delhi experiences its annual smog crisis, Ixigo CEO Aloke Bajpai launched a fiery rebuke to the city’s residents for their indifference towards the health emergency. Bajpai expressed his frustration on social media, slamming people for their unwillingness to wear masks despite the dangerous air.

“With an AQI of over 500, my kids seemed to be the only ones wearing masks to school,” he wrote, “and a parent asked me, ‘Is your son okay?’ No, everything is not right with the air these children breathe.’

As the Air Quality Index (AQI) skyrocketed above 400 and reached the ‘severe’ category, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated Phase III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

This phase restricts the use of construction and diesel generators and imposes strict vehicle limits to reduce pollution. Bajpai’s frustration with Delhi’s nonchalant attitude reflects the concerns of many who fear that complacency could turn this annual air quality problem into an escalating health crisis. “I see more than 50 elderly people in my society during their morning walk,” he continued. “Why isn’t there a public health awareness campaign yet?”

What is JOKE?

GRAP is a phased system designed to tackle pollution as it worsens, with escalating responses based on air quality. Here is an overview of the four GRAP phases:

Phase I (AQI 201-300): ‘Poor’

• Measures: Periodic mechanized sweeping and water spraying on roads to control dust.
• Dust reduction protocols on construction sites, along with improved waste management.
• Emission controls for vehicles, power plants and industries; strict controls on polluting vehicles.
• Ban on open burning and limited use of diesel generators in dining establishments; advice for eco-friendly parties.

Phase II (AQI 301-400): ‘Very poor’

• Measures: Increased frequency of mechanized road cleaning and dust control.
• Uninterrupted power to reduce dependence on private generators.
• Parking fees increased to discourage the use of private vehicles.
• Improved public transport with additional buses and metro services to reduce traffic congestion.

Stage III (AQI 401-450): ‘Severe’ (currently active)

• Measures: Ban on non-essential construction and demolition activities (exemptions for national security and healthcare projects).
• Restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi and the NCR.
• Diesel generators limited to emergency operations only; strict controls on industries using unapproved fuels.
• More public transport services and incentives for off-peak travel.

Stage IV (AQI >450): ‘Severe Plus’

• Measures: Ban on all construction and demolition activities, including public infrastructure projects.
• Entry restrictions for trucks in Delhi, with possible school closures.
• Government-mandated workforce of 50% for office work; take into account odd-even vehicle restrictions.

Despite these steps, Bajpai noted a continued lack of awareness and urgency among residents. Responding to social media suggestions that he should move, Bajpai replied: “Not everyone can move. N99 masks do help.” He further noted that there are no effective health campaigns and wondered why pulmonologists are not more visible in this area. “A middle-aged uncle shrugs his shoulders and says, ‘Ab to hamein immunity hai ji’ (now we are immune).”

Delhi’s pollution has led health experts to urge residents to limit outdoor activities, warning of the serious cognitive and physical toll of long-term exposure.