GRAP stage-3 restrictions revoked in Delhi-NCR as AQI improves to 'very poor'
PTC Web Desk: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Thursday lifted Stage-3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR after the city's air quality index (AQI) improved to the "very poor" category.
The AQI in Delhi was recorded at 289 on January 17, 61 points below the threshold for invoking Stage-3 restrictions as per the Supreme Court's directive. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that the AQI will remain in the lower end of the "very poor" category in the coming days, aided by favourable weather conditions and strong winds.
Overnight rain and cloudy skies also contributed to improving air quality. The national capital recorded a minimum temperature of 11°C, 3.5 degrees above normal, with the maximum temperature expected to reach 22°C. As of 11 a.m. on Thursday, Delhi's AQI stood at 265, as per the Sameer app.
While Stage-3 restrictions have been revoked, construction and demolition activities, which were earlier suspended, cannot resume without explicit approval from the CAQM. Additionally, restrictions under Stage-2 and Stage-3 remain in place to prevent further deterioration of air quality.
Under Stage-3, several measures had been implemented. Classes up to grade 5 were shifted to hybrid mode, allowing students to opt for online education where available. Use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles was restricted, with exemptions for persons with disabilities. Non-essential diesel-operated medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or older engines were banned in the capital.
GRAP restrictions are enforced during the winter months in Delhi-NCR to combat seasonal air pollution. These measures are categorised into four stages based on AQI levels:
Stage 1: Poor (AQI 201-300)
Stage 2: Very Poor (AQI 301-400)
Stage 3: Severe (AQI 401-450)
Stage 4: Severe Plus (AQI above 450)
The CAQM stated that AQI levels will be closely monitored to ensure air quality does not decline further.
- With inputs from agencies
