GRAP-III Restrictions Lifted As AQI Improves In Delhi-NCR — Check What's Allowed And What's Not

The CAQM announced the revocation of actions under Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for Delhi-NCR, effective immediately.

Commuters out a cold and Foggy morning. (Image used for representational purposes only.)

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The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Monday revoked GRAP-III restrictions in Delhi-NCR due to improved air quality, yet retains and enforces Stage-I and Stage-II actions, subsequently lifting the ban on BS III petrol and BS IV diesel vehicles in the region.

In view of improved AQI, Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revokes the GRAP-III with immediate effect from Delhi-NCR. Actions under Stage-I and Stage-II of the GRAP shall however remain invoked and be implemented: CAQM

The ban on BS III petrol and BS IV diesel… pic.twitter.com/iqmFsrlmR8

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In an official order, the CAQM highlighted the improving air quality index (AQI) in Delhi. The statement mentioned, "AQI of Delhi has been progressively improving and has been recorded as 346 at 4:00 P.M., which is about 55 AQI points below the threshold for invoking the GRAP Stage-III actions." The committee also noted the forecasts by IMD/IITM indicating a potential improvement in AQI in the coming days.

The CAQM's decision to lift the GRAP-III restrictions comes after a thorough review of the region's air quality and meteorological conditions. While GRAP-III restrictions have been lifted, the statement emphasised the importance of maintaining vigilance. It stated, "Actions under Stage-I to Stage-II of the GRAP shall... be implemented, monitored, and reviewed by all agencies concerned in the entire NCR."

Moreover, the commission issued a directive concerning specific project sites and industrial units. The statement clarified, "C & D project sites and industrial units which have been issued specific closure orders... shall not resume their operations without any specific order from the Commission."

The CAQM further advised all responsible agencies and residents to adhere strictly to the provisions of GRAP under Stage-I and Stage-II. The committee underscored the need for continued adherence to prevent a potential re-implementation of Stage-III restrictions.

The commission concluded by affirming its commitment to monitoring the air quality scenario closely. Depending on future air quality readings and forecasts by IMD/IITM, the CAQM remains prepared to make appropriate decisions to safeguard public health and the environment.