Delhi Breathes Easier: GRAP Stage 3 Curbs Lifted As Rains Improve Air Quality

GRAP Stage 3 Curbs: The air quality in Delhi showed significant improvement on Friday, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to revoke Stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Favourable weather conditions, including rainfall, helped reduce pollution levels across the national capital and its surrounding regions.

Photo Credit: PTI

GRAP Stage 3 Curbs: Declining Pollution Levels

Delhi's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 324 as of 7 PM, shifting from the "severe" category to the "poor" range. The improved air quality is attributed to light to moderate rainfall that reduced the concentration of pollutants in the air.

GRAP Stage 3 Measures Withdrawn

CAQM announced the withdrawal of Stage 3 curbs, which were earlier implemented to combat the rising pollution levels. However, Stage 1 and Stage 2 measures remain in effect to ensure that air quality does not deteriorate again.

Key Restrictions Under GRAP Stage 3

Previously, Stage 3 measures included:

• A ban on non-essential private construction work.
• Restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars (4-wheelers) in Delhi and NCR.
• Suspension of non-essential diesel-operated medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards.
• Hybrid classes for students up to Grade 5, with an option for online education.

Outlook and Forecast

The India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology have forecast further improvements in air quality due to ongoing favorable meteorological conditions.

CAQM emphasized vigilance and strict enforcement of Stage 1 and Stage 2 measures to prevent a relapse in air quality.

AQI Monitoring and GRAP Guidelines

GRAP’s Stage 3 measures are typically activated when AQI surpasses 350. Stage 4 measures are introduced if AQI crosses 400. Both Stage 3 and 4 restrictions were imposed on December 16 when AQI levels spiked to 401.

Public Response and Next Steps

The Delhi government, along with CAQM, remains focused on maintaining improved air quality. Authorities urged citizens to cooperate with ongoing measures and adopt environmentally friendly practices to sustain cleaner air.