In a positive development for residents of Delhi-NCR, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has revoked actions under Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), citing a marked improvement in air quality.
The decision was taken on May 18, 2025, following a meeting of the GRAP Sub-Committee, which reviewed air quality data, weather forecasts, and pollution trends across the region.
Why the Revocation?
- The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi dropped to 179, which falls in the ‘Moderate’ category.
- The improvement is largely attributed to strong surface winds, thunderstorms, and light rainfall, which helped disperse pollutants.
- Forecasts by the IMD and IITM suggest that AQI levels are expected to remain in the ‘Moderate’ range in the coming days.
What Was in Force?
Stage-I of GRAP, applicable when AQI ranges between 201–300 (‘Poor’ category), had been invoked on May 16, 2025. This stage typically includes actions like:
- Ban on construction and demolition during peak pollution periods.
- Strict dust control at construction sites.
- Regulation of waste burning and other pollution sources.
What This Means Now
- The CAQM has now officially revoked its May 16th order, thereby lifting the GRAP Stage-I curbs with immediate effect.
- However, concerned agencies must continue to implement all statutory directions and dust mitigation measures proactively.
- Authorities are reminded to strictly enforce rules issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), and relevant state pollution control boards.
Continued Vigilance Urged
The CAQM emphasized the need to sustain the current air quality improvements and avoid slipping back into the “Poor” category. Agencies are directed to:
- Follow the comprehensive air pollution control policy of the Commission.
- Enforce dust control and other mitigation measures on-ground.
- Stay prepared for reactivation of GRAP measures, if required.
The Sub-Committee will continue monitoring the situation and may issue new directions based on future AQI levels and weather forecasts.
Delhi-NCR breathes easier for now, but the fight against pollution is far from over. Sustained action and public cooperation will be key to keeping the air cleaner in the long run.