The Commission for Air Quality Management on Monday revoked GRAP-1 restrictions across Delhi-NCR after a marked improvement in air quality.
According to the reports, Delhi’s Air Quality Index rose to 88, which falls in the satisfactory category, and the improvement was attributed to favorable meteorological conditions over the region.
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Curbs lifted after two weeks as restrictions eased
The curbs had been in place since April 16 to prevent pollution levels from worsening further. With the withdrawal, the ban on the use of coal and firewood in tandoors at hotels, restaurants, and open eateries has been lifted.
Restrictions on diesel generators have also been eased. The earlier limitation to emergency or essential services no longer in force.
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Forecast shows moderate air, supports rollback decision
CAQM said forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology suggest that Delhi’s air quality is expected to remain in the moderate range in the coming days. This development supports the decision to remove the first-stage curbs.The Graded Response Action Plan is implemented in stages depending on pollution conditions, with GRAP-1 being the initial level of action.
Relief for businesses as authorities keep close watch
The rollback will ease compliance requirements for eateries and users of generator sets while pollution authorities continue to monitor air quality trends across the capital region. Further decisions will depend on how weather conditions and pollution levels evolve.
What is GRAP-1?
The Graded Response Action Plan is a phased emergency response mechanism utilized in Delhi-NCR to address declining air quality.
When pollution starts to get worse, the first set of restrictions, known as GRAP-1, is put in place. It usually consists of preventive actions meant to lessen dust, car emissions, and other causes of pollution.
