Delhi NCR Breathes Relief As GRAP Stage Three Restrictions Lifted Amid Slight AQI Improvement

New Delhi:  Air quality in Delhi NCR showed slight improvement as wind speed increased and sunlight remained stronger throughout the day. The Commission for Air Quality Management announced the withdrawal of Stage-3 restrictions under GRAP with immediate effect. Authorities stated that enforcement of Stage-1 and Stage-2 rules will continue with strict monitoring. Improvement in AQI prompted the decision, though overall air quality is still categorised as “very poor.” Agencies have been instructed to stay alert and take real-time action if levels worsen again.

What Do The Latest AQI Numbers Indicate?

According to the Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi recorded an average AQI of 327 on Wednesday. A day earlier, the value stood at 353, indicating a 26-point reduction in 24 hours. Despite the drop, air remains in the ‘very poor’ category. On November 23, AQI touched 391, nearing the ‘severe’ level across multiple areas. Experts say pollution remains nearly twice the permissible limit, particularly for PM2.5 concentration. Conditions may worsen if winds slow down.

What Did The Weather Contribute To This Relief?

For the past three days, Delhi has seen gradual improvement in air quality due to stronger sunlight and increased wind movement. Faster dispersion of dust and pollution particles was reported, reducing the intensity of smog. Meteorologists predict the air quality will stay in the ‘very poor’ range for the coming days. However, no immediate entry into ‘severe’ category is expected unless weather patterns reverse. Authorities advise caution despite visible relief.

Will All Construction Activities Resume Now?

Not entirely. The CAQM clarified that construction and demolition sites previously issued closure notices for violations cannot restart operations yet. They will only be allowed to resume once fresh permission is granted by the panel. Officials have asked all enforcement bodies to maintain strict oversight. Continued surveillance is required to ensure that rules are not compromised while restrictions remain partly lifted. Violators may face renewed closure and penalties.

What Is The Current Pollution Level In Particulate Matter?

Data recorded at 2 PM on Wednesday shows PM10 level at 288 micrograms per cubic metre and PM2.5 at 157 micrograms. These values exceed the safe standard by nearly double, as per pollution control guidelines. Experts warn that poor ventilation conditions after sunset may cause particulate density to rise again. Health experts have advised residents, especially senior citizens and children, to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure. Mask usage in peak hours is still recommended.

What Are Authorities Planning Going Forward?

The GRAP sub-committee has confirmed that it will keep monitoring the AQI closely and review decisions based on real-time readings and weather forecasts. Agencies have been asked to continue enforcement under Stage-1 and Stage-2 measures, including vehicle checks and anti-dust operations. Strong monitoring has been ordered at major pollution points such as construction corridors, traffic hotspots and industrial pockets. Any deterioration may trigger a return to stricter restrictions.

Are People Completely Safe Now?

Officials warn that despite improvement, the air is still far from clean. Pollution remains almost two times above safe limits. Medical experts suggest people with breathing issues avoid morning walks and limit exposure. Air quality is expected to stay “poor” to “very poor” for at least two more days. Authorities urge residents not to consider the withdrawal of Stage-3 as complete relief. Continued caution and adherence to advisories remain essential until conditions improve further.