Centre revokes GRAP 3 curbs in Delhi amid dip in pollution levels

The Centre’s panel on Delhi-NCR’s air quality lifted restrictions under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Monday, following a decline in pollution due to favourable meteorological conditions, as per an official order.

Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) fell below 300, creating conditions conducive to pollutant dispersion. This prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to withdraw the curbs under Stage 3 of GRAP.

Stage 3 of GRAP imposes a ban on non-essential construction activities. Schools up to grade V are required to transition to a hybrid learning mode, allowing parents and students to opt for online education wherever available.

Additionally, Stage 3 restricts the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and nearby NCR districts, with exemptions for persons with disabilities. It also prohibits non-essential diesel-operated medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards from operating in Delhi.

During winter, the Delhi-NCR region enforces GRAP restrictions, which classify air quality into four categories: Stage I (Poor, AQI 201-300), Stage II (Very Poor, AQI 301-400), Stage III (Severe, AQI 401-450), and Stage IV (Severe Plus, AQI above 450).

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Adverse meteorological conditions, coupled with emissions from vehicles, paddy-straw burning, firecrackers, and other local pollution sources, contribute to hazardous air quality levels in Delhi-NCR during the winter season.

(With inputs from PTI)