New Delhi [India]: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has lifted Stage-I restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR after the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital improved to 153, falling under the “moderate” category on Saturday.
Currently, Stage-I of GRAP was in effect as per the order issued on March 24, 2025.
According to CAQM, Delhi’s AQI has seen significant improvement due to strong surface winds and favorable weather conditions across the region.
“The AQI of Delhi has been recorded as 153 for March 29 (in the ‘Moderate’ category). Further, the forecast by IMD/IITM also predicts AQI will mainly remain in the ‘Moderate’ category in the coming days,” CAQM stated in an official release.
Following this, the Sub-Committee has decided to revoke its earlier order issued on March 24, 2025, which had enforced Stage-I actions under GRAP due to “Poor” air quality conditions.
The Commission emphasized that all concerned agencies of the respective State Governments and the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) are making efforts to maintain the current AQI levels and prevent a decline into the “Poor” category.
CAQM also highlighted the importance of implementing targeted measures outlined in its comprehensive air pollution control policy for NCR. It urged authorities to prioritize dust mitigation efforts, particularly for construction and demolition (C&D) activities, as well as road and open-area maintenance, which are crucial factors influencing air quality in the coming months.
“The Sub-Committee shall be keeping a close watch on the air quality scenario and review the situation from time to time for further appropriate decisions depending upon the Air Quality in Delhi and forecast made by IMD/IITM,” the statement added.