Delhi Pollution: Centre's Panel For Delhi-NCR Lifts GRAP Stage 3 And 4 Curbs

The Centre’s air quality panel for Delhi-NCR on Thursday revoked pollution control measures under stages 3 and 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for winters, according to an official order. The restrictions have been reduced to Stage 2, which involves less stringent curbs, such as a ban on the use of coal and firewood in industries and commercial establishments, including eateries.

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court allowed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to relax the stringent GRAP-4 curbs to Stage 2, citing an improvement in air quality index (AQI) levels. Delhi residents experienced cleaner air for the second consecutive day on Thursday, with the AQI recorded in the 'moderate' category at 165.

The court observed that the AQI in the National Capital Region (NCR) did not cross 300 in the last four days. It directed that Stage 3 curbs should be introduced if the AQI exceeds 350 and Stage 4 curbs if it surpasses 400.

Stages 3 and 4 of GRAP include a ban on the entry of trucks carrying non-essential goods unless they run on CNG, LNG, or BS-VI diesel. Diesel-powered medium and heavy goods vehicles (BS-IV or lower) are prohibited, except those providing essential services. Non-essential light commercial vehicles from outside Delhi are also restricted.

Additionally, all construction and demolition activities, including public infrastructure projects like highways, flyovers, and pipelines, are suspended under GRAP stages 3 and 4.

(With inputs from PTI.)