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CAQM has lifted Stage-3 GRAP restrictions in Delhi-NCR following a slight improvement in air quality, with the 24 hour AQI at 327. Construction, demolition, and older diesel vehicle bans have been eased, and offices and schools can resume full operations. Stage-1 and Stage-2 measures remain active to sustain the modest gains and prevent pollution spikes. The decision was based on data from IMD and IITM forecasting favorable meteorological conditions. Authorities stress the need for vigilance, as seasonal and structural pollution factors continue to challenge air quality management.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has withdrawn Stage-3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR after monitoring a slight improvement in air quality over recent days. The 24 hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) registered at 327, prompting the authority to lift the stringent measures originally enforced in mid-November. Advertisement
With the Stage-3 restrictions removed, activities such as construction, demolition, and stone-crushing, which were previously suspended, can now resume. Diesel vehicle restrictions, including the ban on older vehicles, have also been lifted. Offices can operate at full capacity, and schools up to Class 5 can function normally without staggered schedules or partial work-from-home directives.
Despite this easing, Stage-1 and Stage-2 measures under the revised GRAP, issued earlier this month, remain in place to maintain the observed improvement in air quality. These lower-level controls are designed to prevent pollution from rising sharply, particularly as seasonal factors like crop burning and cold weather continue to affect the region.
The CAQM's decision followed a review of recent air quality data, meteorological forecasts, and wind patterns by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). Their analysis indicated that conditions were temporarily favorable, allowing for a modest reduction in pollutants. Authorities, however, have emphasized ongoing vigilance to prevent a relapse into higher pollution levels.
Experts note that while the short-term improvement is encouraging, the region's air quality remains within the 'very poor' category in some areas, suggesting that temporary relief measures should be supported with longer-term strategies such as stricter emissions regulation, better traffic management, and promotion of cleaner fuels.
Source PTI
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