Indian authorities on Sunday revoked Stage-I restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan in the National Capital Region, including New Delhi, following a marked improvement in the city’s air quality.
The Commission for Air Quality Management said the decision was taken by its GRAP Sub-Committee after Delhi’s Air Quality Index dropped to 179, placing it in the “moderate” category.
The index, compiled by the Central Pollution Control Board, had prompted restrictions earlier this week when pollution levels had worsened.
“Strong surface winds, thunderstorms, and light rains have led to a significant improvement in air quality,” CAQM said in a statement.
The commission added that forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology also suggest that air quality is likely to remain moderate in the coming days.
Agencies urged to sustain air quality gains
Stage-I measures under GRAP typically include a ban on open waste burning, intensified street cleaning and regulation of construction and demolition activities. These curbs have been in effect since May 16.
Despite the rollback, authorities urged state agencies and departments in the NCR to remain vigilant and ensure strict compliance with ongoing pollution control norms to prevent air quality from deteriorating again.
“All concerned agencies must implement dust mitigation and other preventive measures as outlined in the comprehensive policy to combat air pollution in the region,” the commission said.
The subcommittee said it would continue to monitor the air quality and issue further guidance if conditions change. Delhi, one of the world’s most polluted capitals, regularly battles hazardous levels of air pollution, especially during the winter months.
Also Read:
Toxic Smog Engulfs New Delhi as Air Quality Hits ‘Severe’ Levels Ahead of Winter
