New Delhi: The Commission for Air Quality Management on Friday revoked GRAP Stage-III across the National Capital Region after a sustained improvement in air quality driven by favourable weather conditions.
The CAQM Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan took the decision after Delhi’s daily average Air Quality Index showed a steady decline. At 4 pm, the AQI stood at 236, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board.
The panel met on Friday to assess air quality trends and weather forecasts provided by the India Meteorological Department and IITM. Based on this review, it decided to withdraw Stage-III restrictions with immediate effect.
Officials noted that strong winds played a key role in dispersing pollutants. Moreover, forecasts indicated that air quality would remain in the ‘Poor’ to ‘Very Poor’ category in the coming days.
GRAP Stage-III revoked but lower-stage curbs remain
While revoking Stage-III, the CAQM directed agencies to continue enforcing measures under GRAP Stages I and II. Authorities will monitor these actions closely to prevent any further deterioration in air quality.
The Commission asked all departments to maintain strict vigilance. It also advised agencies to intensify lower-stage measures to avoid the need for re-imposing Stage-III restrictions.
CAQM clarified that construction and demolition sites shut for statutory violations would not resume work without explicit permission. Separate closure orders issued earlier will remain in force.
The Commission urged citizens to follow the GRAP citizen charter under Stages I and II. It said public cooperation was essential during the winter season, when weather conditions could change quickly.
CAQM said it would continue to review air quality and weather forecasts regularly. Further decisions will depend on AQI trends and meteorological conditions across Delhi-NCR.
