Delhi, NCR let out a tiny sigh of relief as the Centre’s air quality panel lifted Stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Sunday. This came after pollution levels across the region showed a marked dip.
According to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the call was taken on the back of an improvement in the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) to 339 at 4 pm and 335 at 5 pm on Sunday. The IMD, and IIT Madras forecasts point to further improvement, with the AQI staying in the ‘poor’ category (200-300) in Delhi during the next couple of days.
Delhi air quality improves, no more restrictions under Stage 3 GRAP
Despite this relaxation, restrictions under GRAP’s Stage 1 and Stage 2 continue to be in place to prevent a further deterioration of pollution levels. The CAQM called for sustained vigilance and effective implementation of measures under these stages.
With the rollback of Stage 3 measures, BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles are allowed on Delhi-NCR roads. Industries and brick kilns using non-clean fuels can be resumed, and diesel generator sets for non-essential purposes are allowed. Construction and demolition activities, which were banned under Stage 3, can also be resumed in a phased manner.
Stage 3 restrictions, which had already been imposed, included bans on diesel trucks for non-essential goods, open garbage burning, and the mandatory hybrid mode of learning up to Grade 5 in schools.
Though relaxation has come as a welcome relief, authorities are urging caution. CAQM warned agencies that strict vigil must be kept to avoid further deterioration in air quality.
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