The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas has announced the revocation of Stage III actions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for Delhi, effective immediately. This decision comes as air quality in the city shows a downward trend. This order was issued on December 27, 2024.
The Supreme Court directed CAQM to implement Stage III measures if the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed 350 and Stage IV if it crossed 400. On December 16th, 2024, Delhi’s AQI reached 401, leading to the invocation of Stage III and IV of GRAP. Stage IV was later revoked on December 24th with improvement in air quality.
Current Situation
Favorable weather conditions and recent rainfall have led to a significant improvement in Delhi’s AQI.
As of December 27th, 2024, the AQI is recorded in the “Poor” category (300-350) and is expected to remain so in the coming days. Based on these improvements, CAQM has revoked Stage III actions under the revised GRAP for Delhi.
However, Stage I and II actions remain in effect and will be strictly implemented by all concerned authorities in the NCR region.
Construction and demolition sites, industrial units, etc., previously closed due to violations, will not resume operations without specific permission from CAQM.
Implementing agencies are required to maintain close vigilance and enforce Stage I & II measures diligently.
While Stage III has been lifted, citizens are urged to continue adhering to the citizen charter under GRAP-II, especially considering the winter season’s unpredictable weather patterns. CAQM will continue to closely monitor Delhi’s air quality and will review the situation as needed, taking further actions based on AQI levels and weather forecasts.
