New Delhi: The Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) under the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has decided to revoke Stage-III of the revised GRAP across the National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect. However, all actions under Stages II and I will remain in effect, to be implemented, monitored, and reviewed by the relevant agencies to ensure that the air quality index (AQI) does not deteriorate further in the coming days.

Delhi’s average AQI has shown consistent improvement, recording 348 at 5 PM, 341 at 6 PM, and 334 at 7 PM, indicating a downward trend. Favourable meteorological conditions, including continuous rainfall since the early hours, have contributed to this improvement. Forecasts from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) suggest that Delhi’s AQI is likely to remain in the “Poor” category (201-300) in the coming days.

Considering the improving air quality, the disruptive impact of Stage-III restrictions on various stakeholders, and the forecasts projecting continued improvement, the Sub-Committee unanimously decided to lift Stage-III restrictions. However, measures under Stages II and I will be intensified and closely monitored to avoid the need for re-imposing Stage-III actions.

Construction and demolition project sites, along with industrial units that were previously issued closure orders due to violations or non-compliance with statutory rules and guidelines, are prohibited from resuming operations unless specifically permitted by the Commission.

While Stage-III has been revoked, the winter season poses challenges as weather conditions may fluctuate. Citizens are urged to adhere strictly to the citizen charter under GRAP Stages II and I to support efforts to maintain air quality.

The Sub-Committee will continue to monitor air quality trends and forecasts to make further decisions as necessary, depending on the situation in Delhi and the NCR.

BI Bureau