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Delhi Eases Air Pollution Restrictions (GRAP-IV Revoked)

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  Published in Business and Finance on Tuesday, January 20th 2026 at 7:52 GMT by moneycontrol.com
      Locale: INDIA

New Delhi, January 20th, 2026 - Delhi residents are experiencing a temporary respite from stringent air pollution controls as authorities have revoked GRAP-IV (Severe Plus) restrictions, citing a marginal improvement in air quality. While this signals a positive, albeit cautious, development, the city's air remains within the 'Poor' category, prompting continued vigilance and the enforcement of GRAP-III measures.

According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) earlier today, the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi clocked in at 342 as of 9:00 AM. While considerably better than the threshold triggering GRAP-IV, this figure still places the city firmly in the 'Poor' air quality range. Understanding these AQI ranges is crucial - a 'Poor' rating indicates moderate health implications, potentially affecting individuals with respiratory illnesses.

What Led to the Improvement?

The slight improvement in air quality is largely attributed to a combination of factors. Foremost among them are favorable meteorological conditions, namely improved ventilation. Stagnant air traps pollutants, so winds that clear the atmosphere provide a necessary, albeit temporary, benefit. Further bolstering this improvement is a noticeable reduction in the prevalence of stubble burning, a recurring agricultural practice in neighboring states that releases significant amounts of particulate matter into the atmosphere. The success of outreach programs and potential policy interventions in these areas may be contributing to this decrease.

What Does Revocation of GRAP-IV Mean?

The revocation of GRAP-IV directly translates to the easing of several stringent restrictions previously imposed on the city. These included a near-total ban on construction activities, limitations on vehicular movement (often involving odd-even schemes), and restrictions on industrial emissions. The lifting of these measures undoubtedly provides relief to businesses and commuters alike, but does not signify a return to normalcy.

GRAP-III Remains in Effect: A Reminder of Ongoing Concerns

The continued enforcement of GRAP-III underscores the persistent air quality challenges. GRAP-III dictates a set of measures that, while less severe than those under GRAP-IV, still aim to mitigate pollution. These might include targeted restrictions on specific polluting industries, increased public awareness campaigns, and stricter enforcement of existing emission standards. The decision to maintain GRAP-III signals a recognition that the air quality remains vulnerable and requires ongoing management.

Understanding the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)

GRAP is a comprehensive framework developed to address the perennial problem of air pollution in Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region (NCR). It's a tiered system, with each stage - I (Poor), II (Very Poor), III (Severe), and IV (Severe Plus) - dictating progressively stricter measures. The plan's effectiveness hinges on a real-time assessment of air quality data and a swift response to prevent pollution levels from escalating to dangerous levels. The very existence of GRAP highlights the severity of the problem and the complex multi-faceted approach needed to tackle it.

Looking Ahead: A Vigilant Approach is Crucial

The recent revocation of GRAP-IV is a welcome development, but it's not a cause for complacency. Delhi's air quality has historically been a significant challenge, particularly during the winter months. Recurring factors like stubble burning, vehicle emissions (especially from older vehicles), and unchecked construction activities continue to pose a threat. Experts warn that a shift in weather patterns or a resumption of intense agricultural burning could easily trigger a return to more restrictive measures under GRAP-IV. Long-term solutions, including promoting cleaner fuels, improving public transportation, enforcing stricter emission standards, and addressing agricultural practices in neighboring states, remain crucial to ensuring a sustainable improvement in Delhi's air quality for the long term. Continuous monitoring and proactive interventions will be key to preventing a relapse into more hazardous conditions.

Further investigation is needed into the impact of recent government subsidies aimed at reducing stubble burning and promoting electric vehicle adoption.