Delhi-NCR Ends Stage IV Air Quality Restrictions Amid Improvement
In a significant development, the Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has lifted all Stage IV measures governing air quality in Delhi-NCR. This decision, effective immediately as of January 20, 2026, comes in response to a noticeable improvement in air quality metrics.
The CAQM originally implemented Stage IV actions on January 17, 2026, following a concerning spike in the average Air Quality Index (AQI) for the Delhi region. However, recent reports indicate a steady enhancement in air quality, with the average AQI declining from 440 on January 18 to 410 the following day, and further down to 378 on January 19. Given these favorable trends, the Sub-Committee convened to reassess the situation.
During the meeting, members observed that improved meteorological conditions, notably increased wind speeds, have positively impacted the AQI, which currently remains categorized as ‘Very Poor’. Forecasts predict that this status may persist in the forthcoming days. Taking into account the improving air quality and the disruptive implications of Stage IV restrictions—which affect a vast number of citizens and businesses—the Sub-Committee reached a unanimous decision to revoke these stringent measures.
It is important to note, however, that actions under GRAP Stages I, II, and III will remain in effect. Relevant agencies across the NCR will continue to monitor and review these measures closely to prevent any further rise in the AQI levels. All agencies are hereby directed to enforce and enhance existing protocols diligently to mitigate any potential deterioration in air quality, thus avoiding the need to re-establish Stage IV restrictions.
Moreover, construction and demolition sites that have previously faced closures due to regulatory non-compliance must not resume operations unless authorized by decree from the Commission. Citizens are strongly encouraged to adhere to the citizen charter outlined under GRAP Stages I, II, and III, especially during the winter season when atmospheric conditions can be less favorable.
The Sub-Committee will maintain vigilant oversight of the air quality situation and will conduct periodic reviews, making further adjustments as necessary based on air quality assessments from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). For additional details, the current GRAP schedule from November 2025 is accessible on the Commission’s official website at caqm.nic.in.
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