Rain Brings Relief: GRAP Stage 3 Curbs Revoked In Delhi-NCR As Air Quality Improves

The anti-pollution restrictions under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) were revoked on Friday (27 December) in the Delhi-NCR region.

This decision came as the region experienced a significant improvement in air quality due to widespread rainfall.

A declining trend in Delhi’s air pollution levels was observed, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 371 on Friday improving to 179 today (December 28) at 8 am.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) proposed removing the restrictions based on forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, which predicted further improvements due to favourable weather conditions.

Stage 3 restrictions had been in place in Delhi-NCR since 16 December.

Delhi and its surrounding areas are likely to witness additional rainfall on Saturday and Sunday, with air quality expected to remain in the lower end of the 'very poor' or 'poor' categories.

GRAP-3 restrictions included a prohibition on non-essential construction and demolition activities, operations of industries and brick kilns using non-clean fuels, and the use of non-essential diesel generator sets.

Diesel trucks transporting non-essential goods were barred from entering Delhi, while open burning of garbage and biomass was strictly prohibited.

Furthermore, schools up to Class 5 were required to adopt a hybrid learning model under these measures.

"Taking into consideration the improving air quality and the probable repercussions of sustaining Stage-III restrictions, which significantly disrupt numerous stakeholders, the CAQM has opted to revoke Stage-III measures with immediate effect across NCR. Meanwhile, protocols associated with Stages II and I will continue to be enforced, monitored, and optimised. This is crucial for preventing further deterioration in air quality," the Commission said.

The curbs prescribed under Stages 1 and 2 will remain in force in the region.

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