The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has lifted the Stage-III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR, following a significant improvement in the city’s air quality due to recent rainfall. The decision to revoke the strict measures, which were imposed on Thursday, came after the air quality index (AQI) showed substantial recovery.
According to the CAQM, the easing of restrictions aligns with the Supreme Court’s directives, which mandate the implementation of GRAP measures based on air quality levels. With rainfall reducing pollution levels, the AQI has improved, allowing the removal of the most stringent restrictions.
While Stage-III measures have been lifted, Stage-I and Stage-II measures will continue to remain in effect. These include restrictions such as limiting the operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles, especially non-essential medium goods vehicles (MGVs), and implementing hybrid classes in schools up to Class 5. However, the lifting of Stage-III restrictions means that private construction and demolition activities can resume, and there will be no limits on the movement of BS-IV diesel vehicles.
The revocation of Stage-III restrictions provides some relief to the residents of Delhi, who were previously grappling with stricter anti-pollution measures. However, the continued enforcement of Stage-I and Stage-II measures highlights the ongoing efforts to control pollution and improve air quality in the region.
