The Central Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has announced the lifting of restrictions under Phase 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-3) after observing significant improvements in air quality. This decision was made during a review meeting held by the GRAP Sub-Committee, where recent AQI levels in Delhi and nearby regions showed signs of improvement.
Improved Air Quality:
The Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded better numbers, with 348 at 5 PM, 341 at 6 PM, and dropping further to 334 later in the evening on Friday. Authorities anticipate more improvement in the coming days.
Construction Activities Permitted:
Restrictions on construction and demolition activities across the National Capital Region (NCR) have been lifted. Mining, related operations, and stone-crushing (crusher) activities are also allowed.
Vehicle Restrictions Eased:
Restrictions on BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles have been removed in Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar. Vehicles used for essential goods transport from other states (except BS-3 diesel vehicles) are now permitted entry into Delhi. The entry ban on diesel light commercial vehicles below BS-4 norms has been lifted.
Future Action Triggers:
According to Supreme Court guidelines, GRAP-3 restrictions will resume if the AQI exceeds 350, and GRAP-4 restrictions will be imposed if AQI crosses 400.
Additional Measures:
Offline classes for students up to Class 5, previously suspended, may also resume if air quality continues to improve.
