- By Shivam Shandilya
- Sun, 05 Jan 2025 07:26 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
As the air quality improved in Delhi-NCR, the restrictions of GRAP-3 have been removed. Meanwhile, the restrictions under Phase 1, 2 of the revised GRAP will remain in force in the national capital and its surrounding areas.
The decision comes after the Sub-Committee on GRAP reviewed the air quality data and the IMD/IITM forecasts, noting a downward trend in AQI levels.
Owing to the favourable meteorological conditions and better wind speed, the AQI of Delhi has been continuously improving and has been recorded as 339 at 4:00 PM and 335 at 5:00 PM and the trend/ forecast indicates the AQI levels to further go down. As per the Air Quality & Weather, forecast provided by IMD/ IITM, there is a further likelihood of AQI of Delhi to remain in 'Poor' category in the coming days owing to favourable meteorological conditions, a release said.
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The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of emergency measures implemented in Delhi-NCR to tackle air pollution based on the severity of the Air Quality Index (AQI). GRAP Stage III entails a ban on nonessential construction work. Classes up to grade V are required to shift to hybrid mode under Stage III. Parents and students have the option to choose online education wherever available.
Under Stage-III, the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars (4-wheelers) was restricted in Delhi and nearby NCR districts. Stage III also bans nonessential diesel-operated medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards in Delhi.
The Supreme Court had earlier directed that GRAP's Stage III measures must be implemented if the AQI exceeds 350 and Stage-IV measures reintroduced if it surpasses 400. Stage-III and Stage-IV were activated on December 16 after AQI levels hit 401.
(With input from agencies)