Delhi-NCR Lifts GRAP-4 Curbs After AQI Improves, Allows Hybrid Classes for Schools

Delhi-NCR has rolled back the strictest stage of pollution curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan after air quality showed marked improvement over the past 24 hours, offering temporary relief to residents following a week of severe conditions.

Air quality improves due to favourable weather

The decision was taken by the GRAP sub-committee after reviewing the latest air quality trends across the region. According to the Commission for Air Quality Management, pollution levels dropped sharply due to strong winds and improved meteorological conditions.

"AQI of Delhi has shown significant improvement since yesterday night owing to high winds and favourable meteorological conditions," the CAQM said in a statement.

The air quality index was recorded at 271 on Wednesday, placing it in the 'poor' category. However, the commission flagged a possible reversal, noting that forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology indicate a potential rise in AQI due to slowing wind speeds in the coming days.

GRAP-4 withdrawn, lower stages to continue

GRAP-4 had been imposed after Delhi's AQI crossed 450, categorised as 'severe-plus'. With conditions easing, the CAQM announced that Stage 4 restrictions would be lifted, while measures under GRAP-1, GRAP-2 and GRAP-3 will continue to remain in force.

These stages apply progressively as pollution worsens, with GRAP-1 activated when AQI ranges between 201 and 300, GRAP-2 between 301 and 400, and GRAP-3 between 401 and 450.

Relief for vehicles and schools

The withdrawal of GRAP-4 has allowed older vehicles that were taken off the roads to resume operations in Delhi. Earlier, the city had restricted entry to only Bharat Stage 6 compliant vehicles, a move that blocked nearly 1.2 million older vehicles registered outside Delhi from entering the capital.

Schools have also been given flexibility. During GRAP-4, the Delhi government had directed schools to conduct classes up to Class 11, excluding Class 10, in hybrid mode combining online and physical attendance.

Entry rules and fuel restrictions remain

Despite the rollback, restrictions linked to lower GRAP stages continue. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa reiterated that only BS-6 vehicles from outside Delhi will be allowed to enter the city while GRAP-3 and GRAP-4 measures are applicable.

Fuel stations will also continue to deny petrol and diesel to vehicles that do not have a valid pollution under control certificate, as authorities remain cautious amid warnings of a possible spike in pollution levels again.