New Delhi: The Commission for Air Quality Management revoked GRAP Stage III restrictions across Delhi-NCR with immediate effect on January 22 after air quality levels showed sustained improvement.
The Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan took the decision after reviewing recent AQI data and forecasts. Earlier, authorities had imposed GRAP Stage III on January 16 following a sharp deterioration in Delhi’s average AQI.
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board showed a steady decline in pollution levels. The average AQI dropped from 378 on January 20 to 330 on January 21, and further to 322 on January 22. Officials attributed the improvement to favourable meteorological conditions.
Based on forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the Sub-Committee noted that AQI was likely to remain in the “moderate” to “poor” range in the coming days. Therefore, members unanimously agreed to lift the stricter curbs, citing their disruptive impact on the public and stakeholders.
CAQM decision on GRAP Stage III based on AQI trend
While revoking GRAP Stage III, the Sub-Committee said actions under Stages II and I would continue across the NCR. Agencies were directed to implement and monitor these measures strictly to prevent further deterioration in air quality.
Authorities also clarified that construction and demolition sites facing closure orders for statutory violations would not resume work without explicit approval from the Commission. In addition, officials urged citizens to follow the citizen charter under Stages I and II, especially during the winter season.
The Sub-Committee said it would closely monitor air quality and review the situation periodically. Further decisions would depend on AQI levels and weather forecasts issued by IMD and IITM.
