Big Relief for Delhiites: CAQM Lifts GRAP Stage II Restrictions, Stage I Measures Stay

New Delhi: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Monday revoked Stage II restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR with immediate effect, offering relief to residents and businesses. However, Stage I measures will continue to manage pollution levels.

Decision Based on Improved Air Quality

The decision was taken after Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 186 on February 24, 2025. According to Supreme Court directives, GRAP Stage II measures can only be implemented when the AQI crosses 300. Since the air quality had improved, authorities decided to lift Stage II measures.

The Sub-Committee of GRAP had previously imposed Stage I restrictions on October 14, 2025, followed by Stage II restrictions on October 21, 2025, due to worsening air quality and adverse weather conditions.

Also Read: Indonesia Court Orders 85 Lashes for Two Men Over Gay Sex In Shocking Shariah Justice

GRAP Stages and Their Impact

GRAP classifies air quality into four stages:

• Stage I (Poor)
• Stage II (Very Poor)
• Stage III (Severe)
• Stage IV (Severe Plus)

Since Delhi’s AQI had dropped below the "Very Poor" category, the authorities found no need to continue Stage II measures.

Restrictions That Will Continue Under GRAP Stage I

Even though Stage II has been lifted, Stage I restrictions will still apply. These include:

• Strict checks on polluting vehicles and improved traffic management.
• Emission control measures in industries, power plants, and brick kilns.
• Ban on open waste burning and limiting the use of diesel generators.
• Ban on coal or firewood usage in eateries.

Also Read: Shocking! Head-On Collision Between Two Bikes in Hamirpur, CCTV Footage Goes Viral

What Changes with Stage II Being Lifted?

Under Stage II measures, authorities had enforced:

• Mechanized road sweeping and water sprinkling to control dust.
• Use of anti-smog guns across the city.
• Ban on coal and firewood, including tandoors in hotels and restaurants.
• Restrictions on diesel generator sets (except for essential services).
• Suspension of construction and demolition activities at specific sites.

With Stage II restrictions now revoked, these activities can resume under regulated conditions.

CAQM Revoked Stage III Measures

Before lifting Stage II, CAQM had revoked GRAP Stage III on February 3. Stage III was enforced on January 31, when Delhi’s AQI touched 365 due to calm winds and increased smog levels.