Delhi's Air Quality Improves, GRAP Stage-III Restrictions Lifted

Delhi's air quality is showing significant improvement, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recording a consistent decline. On January 12, 2025, the average AQI in Delhi steadily improved throughout the day, with readings of 281 at 2 PM, 279 at 3 PM, and 278 at 4 PM, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This positive trend can be attributed to favorable meteorological conditions, including rainfall caused by a Western Disturbance (WD) on January 11-12, 2025.

In response to recent developments, the Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) met to assess the current air quality and the meteorological forecasts provided by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

The Air Quality Index (AQI) level is currently at 278, which is well below the threshold of 350; this is the benchmark for implementing Stage-III restrictions as outlined in the revised GRAP directives by the Supreme Court. Additionally, the IMD predicts another weather disturbance around January 14-15, 2025, which is expected to further improve air quality.

The CAQM Sub-Committee has unanimously decided to lift all restrictions under Stage III of the revised GRAP in the National Capital Region (NCR) due to the ongoing improvement in the Air Quality Index (AQI). 

This decision is effective immediately. However, measures outlined in Stages I and II will remain in place and will be closely monitored by the relevant agencies to ensure that air quality does not deteriorate.

Specific restrictions, such as the closure of Construction & Demolition (C&D) sites and industrial units for non-compliance, will remain in place until explicit orders for resumption are issued. Citizens are urged to adhere to the guidelines under Stages I and II of the GRAP Citizen Charter to ensure AQI levels do not spike, especially during the winter season when unfavorable weather conditions can exacerbate pollution.

The CAQM will continue to closely monitor the air quality and review the situation regularly to take timely and appropriate decisions.