The Centre’s panel on Delhi-NCR’s air quality on Friday rolled back Stage 3 curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) amid a dip in air pollution levels owing to continuous rains, according to an official order. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) issued the directive as Delhi’s air quality showed a declining trend, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 324 at 7 pm.
The improvement in air quality has been attributed to favourable meteorological conditions. Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) suggest that the situation is likely to improve further in the coming days.
Despite the rollback of Stage 3 restrictions, the curbs prescribed under Stage 1 and Stage 2 will remain in force in the region. GRAP Stage 3 entails a ban on non-essential construction work in the private sector, a key measure aimed at curbing dust and particulate matter emissions during periods of severe air pollution.
Under Stage 3, schools are also impacted, as classes up to Grade 5 are required to shift to hybrid mode. This allows parents and students the flexibility to choose online education wherever such facilities are available, ensuring minimal disruption to learning during high-pollution periods.
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In addition, Stage 3 restrictions place curbs on vehicles and goods transport. The use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars (four-wheelers) is restricted in Delhi and nearby NCR districts, with exemptions granted to persons with disabilities. Non-essential medium goods vehicles operating on diesel and meeting BS-IV or older standards are also banned in Delhi under this stage.
The decision to ease Stage 3 restrictions comes as a relief for affected sectors, including construction and transport, as well as for school-going children and parents. However, the continued enforcement of Stages 1 and 2 indicates that authorities remain cautious about preventing a rebound in pollution levels.
The GRAP is a dynamic and graded approach to managing air quality, with measures activated based on the severity of pollution. It plays a crucial role in mitigating air pollution in Delhi-NCR, a region that frequently experiences hazardous air quality, particularly during the winter season.
(With inputs from PTI)
