Big Relief for Delhi-NCR: GRAP-III revoked amid improvement in AQI

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas has withdrawn the restrictions under GRAP Stage III with immediate effect. The decision was taken after a review meeting held by the Sub-Committee on GRAP, following directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court.

However, the authorities have made it clear that GRAP Stage I and Stage II measures will continue across Delhi-NCR to prevent air quality from worsening again.

Review meeting on air quality

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The Sub-Committee on GRAP met on Thursday to assess the current air quality situation in the region. It also reviewed weather and pollution forecasts shared by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and IITM.

Officials observed that Delhi’s air quality has shown improvement in recent days due to favourable weather conditions. On January 22, 2026, Delhi's Air Quality Index was 322, listed at "very poor", remarkably good as compared to earlier "severe" levels.

What the forecast says

According to IMD and IITM forecasts, air quality in Delhi-NCR is expected to remain in the “moderate” to “poor” category in the coming days. Based on this assessment, the Sub-Committee decided that strict measures under GRAP Stage III are no longer required at present.

As a result, the committee revoked its earlier order dated January 16, 2026, which had enforced actions under Stage III of the modified GRAP schedule.

Stage I and II measures to continue

While Stage III has been lifted, authorities stressed that preventive steps under GRAP Stage I and Stage II will remain in force across the entire NCR. These measures include steps to control dust, regulate construction activities, and reduce vehicle emissions.

All implementing agencies have been directed to keep strict vigilance and ensure that pollution levels do not rise again. Monitoring will continue closely so that the AQI does not slip back into the “severe” or “severe plus” categories.

No relief for violating the construction sites

The commission also clarified that construction and demolition sites that were shut down earlier due to violations or non-compliance with pollution norms will not be allowed to resume work automatically.

Such sites can reopen only after receiving a specific order from the Commission. This step is aimed at ensuring strict compliance with environmental rules.

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Appeal to citizens

Even though GRAP Stage III has been withdrawn, the commission urged citizens to remain careful, especially as winter weather conditions are still unfavourable for pollution dispersion.

People have been asked to strictly follow the citizen charter under GRAP Stage I and II, such as limiting the use of private vehicles, avoiding waste burning, and cooperating with pollution control measures.

Situation under watch

The Sub-Committee said it will continue to closely monitor the air quality situation in Delhi-NCR. Further decisions will be taken based on real-time air quality data and weather forecasts from IMD and IITM.

Authorities warned that stricter measures may be reintroduced if pollution levels rise again.