New Delhi [India]: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has lifted Stage-III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region (NCR) following an improvement in air quality. The decision comes into effect immediately.
On February 3, 2025, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 286, which is 64 points below the Stage-III threshold of 350, as mandated by the Supreme Court’s directives.
Favorable Weather Conditions Contribute to Improvement
In an official order, RK Agrawal, Director (Technical) and Member Convenor of the GRAP sub-committee, stated that the improved air quality was due to better meteorological conditions, including increased mixing height and ventilation coefficient, aiding the dispersion of pollutants.
“The AQI of Delhi has been recorded as 286 for 03.02.2025, which is 64 points below the 350 mark required for implementing Stage-III. Further, the forecast by IMD predicts very light rain/drizzle and favorable wind conditions in the days to come,” the order read.
Stage-I and II Restrictions Remain in Place
Despite the improvement, restrictions under Stages I and II of GRAP will continue to be enforced. All implementing agencies have been directed to remain vigilant and intensify measures under these stages.
Furthermore, construction and demolition sites that were previously shut down for non-compliance with pollution norms cannot resume operations without explicit approval from the commission.
Precautionary Measures in Case of Deterioration
The CAQM has also warned that if the AQI exceeds 350, Stage-III restrictions will be immediately reinstated. In the event of the AQI crossing 400, Stage-IV emergency measures will be enforced.
On Monday, Delhi’s air quality had deteriorated to the ‘poor’ category, with the AQI recorded at 286 at 4 PM, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.