The Commission for Air Quality Management’s (CAQM) Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has revoked Stage-III restrictions across the National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect. The decision comes as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) shows significant improvement, recording 278 at 4 PM on Sunday, well below the Stage-III threshold of 350. Delhi’s average AQI has been on a steady decline, attributed to favorable weather conditions, including rains caused by a Western Disturbance on January 11-12. Further forecasts from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predict another Western Disturbance around January 14-15, signaling continued improvement in air quality.
Stage-III measures, including construction bans and industrial restrictions, were implemented on January 9. While these have been lifted, actions under Stages II and I remain in effect. Authorities have been directed to intensify and monitor these measures to prevent a resurgence in pollution levels. Meanwhile, specific closure orders for Construction Demolition (C&D) sites and industrial units will remain in place unless explicitly revoked by the Commission. The CAQM has urged the citizens to adhere to the Citizen Charter under Stages II and I to maintain the current air quality improvement.
The Sub-Committee emphasized its commitment to closely monitoring the air quality and revisiting decisions if necessary. Stakeholders and the public are advised to remain vigilant, especially during the winter season, when adverse meteorological conditions could impact air quality.
