In a welcome relief for Delhi-NCR, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has revoked the implementation of Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which was in effect since June 7, 2025, due to ‘Poor’ air quality levels (AQI between 201–300).
The decision comes following a review by the Sub-Committee on GRAP, which assessed current air quality data and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
📉 Air Quality Improvement Triggers Action
- The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi has shown consistent improvement over recent days.
- On June 15, 2025, Delhi recorded an AQI of 140, which falls in the ‘Moderate’ category.
- Forecasts also suggest the AQI is likely to remain in the Moderate zone in the coming days.
As a result, the Sub-Committee has decided to revoke the previous GRAP Stage-I order dated 07.06.2025, with immediate effect across the entire NCR.
📋 What Was Stage-I of GRAP?
Stage-I actions are implemented when air quality deteriorates to the ‘Poor’ category (AQI 201–300). These typically include:
- Restrictions on construction and demolition
- Control measures for dust and emissions
- Enhanced pollution checks and vehicle regulations
With the improvement in AQI, these Stage-I curbs are no longer in force, as of June 15, 2025.
🛑 Ongoing Responsibilities for Agencies
While the curbs are lifted, the Commission has urged all state and local agencies in Delhi-NCR to:
- Continue implementing dust mitigation and pollution control measures
- Follow all statutory directions, advisories, and orders issued by the CAQM, MoEFCC, CPCB, and state pollution control boards
- Stick to timelines and action points laid out in the Comprehensive Air Pollution Control Policy
- Ensure field-level enforcement in all contributing sectors, especially construction, transport, and waste burning
👁️🗨️ What’s Next?
The Sub-Committee has emphasized that it will continue monitoring air quality in Delhi-NCR closely. If there is any deterioration in AQI or change in forecasts, further actions under GRAP may be reinstated as required.
This revocation is a positive sign, reflecting the impact of meteorological conditions and air quality control efforts. However, sustained vigilance remains crucial to maintaining clean air in the region.
