Delhi’s Air Quality Shows Improvement
Delhi’s air quality has shown a significant improvement in recent hours, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) steadily declining. As of 5 PM today, the AQI was recorded at 335, down from 348 earlier in the day. This positive trend has prompted the Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to review the current air quality situation and make decisions regarding necessary actions. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has been closely monitoring these changes, and the latest data suggests that favorable meteorological conditions are contributing to this improvement.
Continuous Improvement in AQI
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported a notable decrease in Delhi’s AQI throughout the day. At 2 PM, the AQI was 348, which dropped to 343 by 3 PM. By 4 PM, it further improved to 339, and finally reached 335 at 5 PM. This consistent decline indicates a positive trend in air quality. The Sub-Committee on GRAP attributes this improvement to favorable meteorological conditions, including better wind speeds that help disperse pollutants.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) have provided forecasts suggesting that the AQI may remain in the “Poor” category in the coming days. However, the current trend is encouraging, and the Sub-Committee believes that the AQI levels may continue to decrease. This optimism is crucial for the residents of Delhi, who have been grappling with poor air quality for an extended period.
Revocation of Stage-III GRAP Actions
In light of the improving air quality, the CAQM Sub-Committee has unanimously decided to revoke all actions under Stage-III of the revised GRAP across the National Capital Region (NCR) effective immediately. This decision comes after a thorough review of the air quality parameters and forecasts. The Sub-Committee acknowledged the disruptive nature of Stage-III restrictions, which impact numerous stakeholders and the general public.
While Stage-III actions are being lifted, the Sub-Committee emphasized that actions under Stages II and I of the revised GRAP will remain in effect. These measures will be closely monitored and enforced by relevant agencies to ensure that air quality does not deteriorate again. The Sub-Committee is committed to maintaining vigilance and will intensify measures under Stages II and I to prevent the need for re-implementing Stage-III actions in the future.
Strict Compliance for Non-Compliant Entities
Despite the revocation of Stage-III actions, strict compliance remains essential for construction and demolition sites, as well as industrial units that have received closure orders due to violations of statutory regulations. These entities are not permitted to resume operations without explicit permission from the Commission. This measure aims to ensure that air quality does not regress due to non-compliance.
The Sub-Committee has urged citizens to adhere to the Citizen Charter under Stages II and I of the revised GRAP schedule. This is particularly important during the winter season when weather conditions can be unpredictable. The Sub-Committee will continue to monitor the air quality situation closely and will make further decisions based on real-time data and forecasts from IMD and IITM.
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