GRAP 2 restrictions lifted in Delhi AQI dips | What's allowed, what's still not

GRAP 2 restrictions lifted in Delhi AQI dips | What's allowed, what's still not

GRAP 2 restrictions lifted in Delhi AQI dips | What's allowed, what's still not ByHT News Desk Feb 24, 2025 06:36 PM IST Share Via Copy Link Delhi's 24-hour average air quality index stood at 186 at 4 pm, significantly below the 300-mark that triggers Stage 2 restrictions.

The Centre's panel on Delhi-NCR's air quality on Monday revoked the Stage 2 anti-pollution curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This comes after a dip in pollution levels due to favourable meteorological conditions.

FILE PHOTO: Delhi has seen extreme pollution in recent months.(REUTERS)

Delhi's 24-hour average air quality index stood at 186 at 4 pm on Monday, significantly below the 300-mark that triggers Stage 2 restrictions. The national capital will now be under GRAP 1 restrictions until further notice.

Also read: Delhi's max temperature to dip soon, Western Disturbance to bring rain: IMD

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas attributes the improved air quality to better mixing height, ventilation coefficient, and "much favourable conditions for dispersion of pollutants".

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) predict that the AQI will likely remain in the moderate to poor category. This might be a relief for the city residents who have constantly lived under severe conditions in recent months.

During winters, the Delhi-NCR region enforces restrictions under GRAP, which categorizes air quality into four stages – Stage I (Poor, AQI 201-300), Stage II (Very Poor, AQI 301-400), Stage III (Severe, AQI 401-450), and Stage IV (Severe Plus, AQI above 450).