The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Sunday lifted the Stage 3 restrictions under the Quality Response Action Plan (GRAP) as air quality improves. This development followed a downward trend in Air Quality Index (AQI) readings in Delhi. Currently, AQI readings of 350 and above automatically trigger STAGE 3 GRAP restrictions in the national capital.
At 4 pm on Sunday, the Delhi AQI was recorded at 278, 72 points below the 350 mark, which triggers GRAP 3 limits.
GRAP 3 restrictions, which were lifted on Sunday, were implemented on January 9 as air quality reached ‘severe’ levels.
However, STAGE 1 and STAGE 2 GRAP restrictions will remain in effect for the time being, in accordance with CAQM. “All working institutions must be vigilant and particularly strong
measures under Phase-I & II of the revised GRAP,” it noted.
“Although GRAP Stage-III is being withdrawn, in view of the winter season when the weather conditions may not be good all the time and to ensure that AQI levels do not decrease, citizens are requested to strictly follow the citizens’ constitution under GRAP. -II,” according to an official statement.
The CAQM said it will closely monitor the air quality situation and review the situation from time to time for further appropriate decisions “depending on the air quality in Delhi and the forecast made by IMD/IITM”.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted another Western Disturbance in the region around January 14-15.
The removal of GRAP 3 restrictions means that demolition-related activities, including excavation and filling and piling activities can proceed, without the laying of sewer or water lines and drainage and electrical lines. Additionally, activities involving the construction and maintenance of roads and the transportation of demolition waste will no longer be prohibited.
With the removal of GRAP 3 restrictions, which vehicles can operate on NCR roads now?
With the GRAP 3 ban lifted, the use of BS-III and BS-IV petrol vehicles (four wheelers) will be allowed in Delhi NCR and adjoining areas.
The GRAP 3 restrictions also banned non-essential diesel-powered medium-duty vehicles with BS-IV or older national capital standards.