CAQM Lifts Stage III GRAP Curbs As Delhi-NCR Air Improves

27 Jan 2026 CW Team

The Commission for Air Quality Management has recently revoked all Stage III actions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR with immediate effect, following sustained improvement in air quality. Stage III had been imposed on 16 January 2026 after a sharp deterioration in Delhi’s average AQI.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi’s average AQI improved from 378 on 20 January to 330 on 21 January and further to 322 on 22 January 2026. Based on favourable meteorological conditions and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP decided to withdraw Stage III measures across the NCR.

However, actions under Stages I and II of the extant GRAP schedule (November 2025) will continue to remain in force and be strictly implemented to prevent further deterioration in air quality. The Commission clarified that construction and demolition sites closed due to statutory violations will not be permitted to resume operations without explicit approval. CAQM will continue to closely monitor air quality trends and review the situation periodically to determine any further action.

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