CAQM Revokes GRAP-3 Restrictions in Delhi-NCR as Air Quality Improves
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced on Thursday, 22 January 2026, that it has officially revoked the Stage-III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the Delhi-National Capital Region. This decision comes as a direct response to the measurable improvement in air quality observed across the region, marking a significant development in the ongoing battle against pollution.
What Led to the Revocation of GRAP-3?
The CAQM cited concrete data showing that Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) had improved to 332 on Thursday, which prompted the regulatory body to relax the stringent Stage-III measures. According to weather forecasts analyzed by the commission, the AQI is expected to remain within the 'moderate' to 'poor' categories in the coming days, providing a window of relief from the more severe pollution levels that necessitated GRAP-3 implementation.
However, it is crucial to note that restrictions under Stage-I and Stage-II of the revised GRAP remain firmly in place. The CAQM has emphasized that all concerned agencies across the entire NCR will continue to monitor and review these measures to prevent any deterioration in air quality. This layered approach ensures that while some restrictions are lifted, foundational pollution control mechanisms stay active.
What Restrictions Continue Under GRAP-1 and GRAP-2?
With GRAP-3 revoked, residents and authorities must remain vigilant about the ongoing GRAP-1 and GRAP-2 curbs. These include a comprehensive set of prohibitions and mandates designed to maintain air quality standards:
- Complete ban on open burning of biomass and municipal solid waste across all areas.
- Prohibition on using coal and firewood as fuel in tandoors at hotels, restaurants, and open eateries.
- Restrictions on inter-state buses entering Delhi from NCR states, with exceptions only for vehicles running on electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel engines. Buses operating under an All India Tourist Permit are exempt from this rule.
- Avoidance of dust-generating construction activities during the critical months from October to January.
- Strict prohibition against littering and the open disposal of waste and garbage in public spaces.
Operational Changes and Mandatory Measures
Under the continuing GRAP-1 and GRAP-2 framework, several operational adjustments and enforcement measures are mandated:
State governments retain the authority to introduce staggered working hours for public offices and municipal bodies across various parts of the NCR. Similarly, the Central Government may consider implementing staggered office timings for its departments located within the Delhi-NCR region. This measure aims to reduce vehicular congestion and associated emissions during peak hours.
Additional mandatory requirements include:
- Intensified use of anti-smog guns, water sprinklers, and dust suppression systems in all road construction, widening, repair, and maintenance projects.
- Strategic deployment of traffic police personnel at identified corridors and intersections prone to heavy traffic and congestion to ensure smoother traffic flow and minimize idling emissions.
Looking Ahead: Air Quality Projections
The CAQM's order highlighted that while the immediate revocation of GRAP-3 is a positive step, the situation remains dynamic. The commission will continue to assess meteorological conditions and pollution data closely. The forecast suggests that Delhi's AQI is likely to fluctuate between 'moderate' and 'poor' levels in the near term, underscoring the importance of maintaining GRAP-1 and GRAP-2 protocols to prevent a regression to severe pollution categories.
This development reflects the responsive nature of India's air quality management framework, where restrictions are calibrated based on real-time environmental data. Authorities urge continued public cooperation in adhering to the remaining guidelines to sustain the gains in air quality achieved so far.
