GRAP stage 3 curbs revoked in Delhi-NCR as air quality improves to ‘very poor’ range

The Commission for Air Quality Management on Thursday revoked Stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan in Delhi-NCR following an improvement in air quality levels. The decision came after Delhi’s Air Quality Index improved to 332, prompting the relaxation of curbs imposed earlier this month.

In its order, the commission said the improvement was aided by favourable meteorological conditions. Citing forecasts from the India Meteorological Department, it stated that the AQI in the region is expected to remain in the ‘moderate’ to ‘poor’ category in the coming days, leading to the withdrawal of severe pollution measures with immediate effect.

The commission clarified that while Stage 3 restrictions have been revoked, citizens must strictly follow measures prescribed under GRAP Stage 1 and Stage 2. It warned that winter weather conditions remain unfavourable and continued vigilance is necessary to prevent further deterioration in air quality levels.

Delhi’s air quality had shown marginal improvement a day earlier but continued to remain in the ‘very poor’ category. On Wednesday morning, the city recorded an AQI of 339, while smog continued to blanket areas such as India Gate and Kartavya Path. On Thursday morning, the AQI stood at 313, according to pollution control data.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court directed the Delhi government and concerned authorities to submit plans for implementing long-term measures recommended by the commission to address air pollution, with a focus on curbing vehicular emissions. The court sought action to tackle the root causes contributing to the capital’s recurring pollution crisis.