Breathing a bit easier in Delhi? Thanks to steadily improving air quality, the National Capital Region (NCR) has bid farewell to Stage 2 GRAP curbs. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) made the announcement on Wednesday, lifting these restrictions after Delhi’s average AQI fell to 214 – still ‘Poor,’ but a marked improvement from recent highs.
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) highlighted the progress: AQI plummeted from 261 on February 16 to 249 the next day, and 214 on February 18. Supportive weather, with stronger winds dispersing pollutants, fueled this change. IMD and IITM projections suggest the AQI will stabilize in the ‘Poor’ to ‘Moderate’ range ahead.
The GRAP sub-committee’s unanimous call followed a thorough assessment. ‘The consistent upward trend in air quality prompted us to revoke Stage 2 across NCR immediately,’ CAQM stated. Yet, Stage 1 protocols – think construction dust mitigation and diesel generator limits – stay active. Agencies received orders to ramp up compliance checks.
Recall that Stage 2 kicked in back on October 19, 2023, when AQI spiked alarmingly. Now, with monitoring intensified, the focus is preventing backsliding. Officials stressed real-time surveillance, with the sub-committee set for regular updates.
For residents, this means some eased rules on vehicle rations and industrial ops, but personal responsibility counts. Avoid open burning, report violations, and support green initiatives. As Delhi battles its annual smog crisis, such responsive actions under GRAP prove vital for public health.