CAQM revokes GRAP Stage-III across Delhi-NCR as AQI improves

23 Jan

23Jan

In News : CAQM revokes GRAP Stage-III across Delhi-NCR as AQI improves

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has revoked Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR with immediate effect.
The decision was taken following an improvement in Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in the national capital.
On the day of the decision, the AQI was recorded at 322, indicating a shift from the ‘severe’ category.
CAQM cited favourable meteorological conditions as a key factor contributing to the improvement in air quality.
Based on forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), AQI levels in Delhi-NCR are expected to remain in the ‘moderate’ to ‘poor’ categories in the coming days.
While GRAP Stage-III measures have been revoked, actions under Stage-I and Stage-II will continue to remain in force.
Citizens have been advised to strictly adhere to the citizen charter under GRAP Stages I and II, given the winter season and the possibility of deterioration in air quality.
The revocation order withdraws measures that were invoked on 16 January 2026 under the modified GRAP framework dated 21 November 2025.

CAQM is a statutory body established for air quality management in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas.
It is responsible for:
- Coordinating actions among states and agencies
- Monitoring air quality trends
- Implementing emergency response measures under GRAP

GRAP is a set of emergency measures to tackle air pollution in Delhi-NCR based on AQI levels.
It is divided into four stages:
- Stage I: Poor
- Stage II: Very Poor
- Stage III: Severe
- Stage IV: Severe Plus / Emergency
Measures become progressively stricter with worsening air quality.