GRAP 3 restrictions lifted in NCR as Delhi AQI improves; GRAP 1, GRAP 2 remain in force
The GRAP 3 restrictions, revoked on Sunday, were enforced on January 9 as the quality of air reached severe levels. However, the STAGE 1 and STAGE 2 GRAP restrictions will remain in force for now, according to the CAQM. All implementing agencies shall keep strict vigil and especially intensify measures under Stage-I & II of the revised GRAP, it noted.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Sunday revoked STAGE 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as the quality of air improved. The development followed a downward trend in the Air Quality Index (AQI) readings in Delhi. Currently, AQI readings of 350 and above automatically trigger the STAGE 3 GRAP restrictions in the national capital.
At 4 pm on Sunday, the Delhi AQI was recorded at 278, 72 points below the 350 mark, which triggers the GRAP 3 restrictions.
The GRAP 3 restrictions, revoked on Sunday, were enforced on January 9 as the quality of air reached 'severe' levels.
However, the STAGE 1 and STAGE 2 GRAP restrictions will remain in force for now, according to the CAQM. "All implementing agencies shall keep strict vigil and especially intensify
measures under Stage-I & II of the revised GRAP," it noted.
"While GRAP Stage-III is being revoked, keeping in view the winter season when weather conditions may not be always favorable and in order to ensure that the AQI levels do not slip further, citizens are requested to strictly adhere to the citizen charter under GRAP-II," according to an official statement.
The CAQM said it would be keeping a close watch on the air quality scenario and review the situation from time to time for further appropriate decisions "depending upon the Air Quality in Delhi and forecast made by IMD/IITM".
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted another Western Disturbance in the region around January 14-15.
The lifting of GRAP 3 restrictions means that demolition-related works, including earthwork for excavation and filling and piling activities may continue, besides laying of sewer or water lines and drainage and electric cables. Additionally, activities involving road construction and repair as well as transportation of demolition waste will no longer be banned.
With the lifting of GRAP 3 restrictions, which vehicles can ply on NCR roads now?
With the GRAP 3 ban now lifted, the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars (four-wheelers) will be permitted in the Delhi NCR and its adjoining areas.
The GRAP 3 restrictions also banned non-essential diesel-operated medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards in the national capital.
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