New Delhi: The stringent anti-pollution measures under Stage-4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) have been revoked in Delhi and its surrounding areas following a notable improvement in air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced that while Stage-4 curbs have been lifted, restrictions under Stages 1, 2, and 3 will remain in place to prevent a relapse of worsening air quality.
Improving Air Quality
As of 5 PM on Tuesday, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 364, categorized as “very poor.” This is 36 points below the threshold of 400 set by the Supreme Court for invoking Stage-4 measures. The CAQM highlighted that Delhi’s air quality has been “continuously improving” since morning, prompting the decision to ease the highest level of restrictions.
Remaining Restrictions
Despite the revocation of GRAP-4 measures, the CAQM emphasized the importance of continued vigilance. “Actions under Stages I, II, and III of the revised GRAP shall remain invoked and be implemented, monitored, and reviewed by all concerned agencies across the NCR to ensure AQI levels do not deteriorate further,” the commission stated.
GRAP-4 Measures
Stage-4 curbs were reintroduced on December 16 when the AQI breached the 400 mark, reaching the “severe” category. These measures included:
- A complete ban on construction activities.
- Restricting the entry of non-essential polluting trucks into Delhi.
- Mandating hybrid learning for school classes, except for grades 10 and 12.
The lifting of these restrictions comes as Delhi’s air quality shows improvement, supported by meteorological factors such as favorable wind speeds. However, forecasts by the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology indicate that the AQI is expected to remain in the “very poor” category in the coming days.
Seasonal Air Pollution Challenges
Delhi’s air quality typically deteriorates during winter due to low wind speeds, vehicular emissions, and stubble burning in nearby states. This year, the Delhi government also enforced a year-round ban on firecrackers, with the Supreme Court urging neighboring states like Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to implement similar measures.
The decision to lift GRAP-4 restrictions offers some relief to industries and construction activities in the capital while maintaining vigilance to curb further pollution.
