Stringent anti-pollution measures under Stage-4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) have been lifted in Delhi and its neighboring areas due to a noticeable improvement in air quality levels. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced the decision, stating that Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has been “continuously improving” throughout the day. At 5 PM, the AQI stood at 364, classified as “very poor,” but below the critical threshold of 400 required for Stage 4 curbs.
Despite the revocation of Stage 4 measures, restrictions under Stages 1, 2, and 3 of GRAP will remain in effect to prevent further deterioration of air quality. The CAQM stressed that these measures should be implemented and monitored diligently across the National Capital Region (NCR).
Earlier Imposition of GRAP 4
Stage 4 restrictions were reintroduced on December 16, following a sharp spike in pollution levels that pushed the AQI past the severe 400 mark. These curbs included a complete ban on construction activities, restrictions on the entry of non-essential polluting trucks into Delhi, and mandatory hybrid learning for all school classes except 10 and 12.
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Meteorological forecasts suggest that Delhi’s AQI is likely to remain in the “very poor” category in the coming days, with favorable wind speeds and weather conditions contributing to this status, according to the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology.
The GRAP Framework
GRAP is a tiered set of emergency measures designed to tackle air pollution in the national capital region based on AQI severity. These measures are adjusted dynamically to respond to worsening or improving air quality conditions.
Delhi experiences a seasonal decline in air quality during winter due to several factors, including low wind speeds, vehicular emissions, and the burning of crop stubble and firewood.
Year-Round Ban on Firecrackers
Recently, the Delhi government implemented a year-long ban on firecrackers to combat air pollution, prompting the Supreme Court to direct neighboring states, including Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, to enforce similar restrictions.
