Delhi Pollution Update: GRAP Stage III Lifted After AQI Eases

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)has withdrawn GRAP Stage III restrictions in Delhi. Authorities will now focus on enforcing measures under Stage I and Stage II more strictly.

In the order released by CAQM, it states that "The AQI of Delhi has been improving since last 3 days and has been recorded 327 today. Further, the forecast by IMD/ IITM predlicts the AQl to remain in very poor category in coming days."

Following the rollback of Stage III, the 50% work-from-home mandate and hybrid school classes have now been withdrawn.

However, the Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) clarified that construction and demolition sites that were previously shut for violations will not be permitted to resume operations.

Meanwhile, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Wednesday instructed Delhi and NCR states to prepare a scientifically planned greening strategy aimed at achieving long-term improvement in air quality, according to PTI.

Adding to the concerns, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant said the Supreme Court may consider virtual-only hearings if the Bar Association proposes it, given Delhi’s worsening air quality. He also shared that he felt unwell after a nearly one-hour outdoor walk on October 25, due to pollution.