GRAP Stage-I Revoked in Delhi-NCR as AQI Improves

20 May 2025 CW Team

Delhi’s air quality showed marked improvement on 18 May 2025, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 179, placing it in the ‘Moderate’ category, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). In light of this positive trend and favourable forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), the Sub-Committee on Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has decided to revoke Stage-I restrictions in the entire National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect.

The committee observed that recent thunderstorms, strong surface winds, and light rainfall contributed to the improved air quality. IMD and IITM have projected that AQI levels are likely to remain in the ‘Moderate’ range over the coming days, supporting the rollback of GRAP Stage-I measures that had been in place since 16 May 2025.

While restrictions have been lifted, all concerned departments and state agencies across NCR are instructed to continue implementing existing pollution control directives. These include dust mitigation, construction regulations, and enforcement of emissions standards as outlined by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), CPCB, and local pollution control boards.

The CAQM emphasised that sustained compliance is essential to prevent a relapse into the ‘Poor’ category, urging continued vigilance. The Sub-Committee will maintain close monitoring of the air quality and meteorological conditions to determine if further action is required.

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