Air Quality Improvement in the Region
Air Quality Relief in Delhi NCR After Stage 3 Restrictions Withdrawn: Delhi NCR recorded a significant improvement in pollution levels, prompting authorities to withdraw Stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The 24-hour AQI reached 327, a level categorised as ‘Very Poor’ yet not severe enough to sustain higher-stage interventions. This shift allows essential activities to resume across the region.
Static GK fact: India’s National Air Quality Index (AQI) was first introduced in 2014 under the Swachh Bharat Mission.
Understanding the GRAP Framework
GRAP operates as a tiered system with four levels of intervention, activated based on pollution severity. Stage 3 applies when AQI crosses 401, marking the ‘Severe’ category. With improved readings, authorities scaled back to Stage 2 and Stage 1 measures that continue to guide mitigation. The framework is central to Delhi’s winter readiness plan.
Static GK fact: Delhi was the first city in India to implement a graded response strategy for air pollution.
Vehicle Restrictions Relaxed
With Stage 3 revoked, the ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles has been lifted. This brings relief to commuters and service providers who rely on older fleet categories. However, vigilance remains as lower-stage rules still regulate vehicular movement, emissions compliance, and road discipline.
Static GK fact: The Bharat Stage emission norms are based on standards introduced by the European Union.
Measures Active Under Lower Stages
Under Stage 1, agencies must ensure dust control, continuous water sprinkling, mechanical road sweeping, and strict monitoring of construction sites. Stage 2 adds higher penalties, increased parking fees, and restrictions aimed at discouraging private vehicle use. These layers remain crucial due to persistent pollution levels.
Static GK fact: Mechanical sweeping was adopted in many Indian cities after the recommendations of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Public Advisory and Continued Oversight
Even with the relaxation, authorities continue urging residents to reduce private vehicle usage, favour public transport, and follow pollution advisories. Enforcement teams remain deployed at sensitive zones, construction corridors, and major arterial roads. These efforts aim to maintain the recent improvement in air quality.
Static GK fact: Delhi’s first Metro line was inaugurated in 2002 to promote cleaner mobility options.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Air Quality Relief in Delhi NCR After Stage 3 Restrictions Withdrawn:
| Topic | Detail |
| Reason for Revoking Stage 3 | AQI improved to 327 (Very Poor range) |
| Revoking Authority | Commission for Air Quality Management |
| Vehicle Rules | Ban lifted on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles |
| Operational GRAP Stages | Stage 1 and Stage 2 remain active |
| Active Measures | Dust control, road sweeping, penalties for violations |
| AQI Category | Very Poor (301–400) |
| GRAP Stage 3 Trigger Range | AQI 401–450 |
| Public Advisory | Reduce private vehicle use and shift to public transport |
| Enforcement Focus | Construction dust, waste burning, vehicle emissions |
| Region Covered | Delhi NCR |
