GRAP 2 restrictions lifted as pollution levels in Delhi improves

NEW DELHI: The central government's committee monitoring Delhi-NCR's air quality has lifted Stage 2 restrictions under GRAP as pollution levels decreased due to suitable weather conditions.
At 4 pm, Delhi's 24-hour average air quality index was recorded at 186, well under the 300-mark that activates Stage 2 measures.
In a statement, the Supreme Court in the matter of MC Mehta Vs. Union of India & Ors. dated 05.12.2024 said, "...we must record here that if the Commission finds that the AQI goes above 350, as a precautionary measure, Stage-III measures will have to be immediately implemented. If the AQI crosses 400 on a given day, Stage-IV measures will have to be reintroduced..."

According to forecasts by the India Meteorological Department and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the AQI is expected to stay within moderate to poor ranges.
The

Commission for Air Quality Management

in NCR and surrounding areas notes that improved air quality results from enhanced mixing height, ventilation coefficient, and conditions favouring pollutant dispersal.
Following the withdrawal of Stage 2 restrictions, inter-state buses from NCR regions can now enter Delhi.
The Delhi-NCR region implements GRAP during winter months, which classifies air quality in four stages: Stage I (Poor, AQI 201-300), Stage II (Very Poor, AQI 301-400), Stage III (Severe, AQI 401-450), and Stage IV (Severe Plus, AQI above 450).
Poor weather conditions, along with vehicular pollution, stubble burning, firework emissions, and various local pollution sources contribute to dangerous air quality levels in Delhi-NCR during winter season.