Major relief for Delhi-NCR as CAQM lifts GRAP-IV restrictions, THESE measures to remain

New Delhi: There's good news for the people of Delhi-NCR. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has ordered the immediate lifting of GRAP Stage-IV (Severe Plus) restrictions. This important decision was taken by the commission's sub-committee in view of the improvement in Delhi's air quality.

What did the CAQM statement say?

The commission stated on Tuesday that Delhi's pollution levels have decreased due to increased wind speed and favorable weather conditions. On January 20, 2026, Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 378, which falls in the 'Very Poor' category.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department's forecast, the AQI is likely to remain in this range in the coming days, providing relief from the 'Severe Plus' (AQI > 450) situation. Based on this, the GRAP Stage-IV order, which was implemented on January 17, 2026, has been withdrawn.

What restrictions has the CAQM imposed in Delhi?

However, while lifting GRAP Stage-IV, the commission also clarified that the fight against pollution is not yet over. The restrictions under Stages 1, 2, and 3 of the revised GRAP schedule will remain in effect as before. All agencies have been directed to strictly implement the measures under these stages and maintain close monitoring to prevent the AQI level from slipping back into the 'Severe Plus' category. The commission has also appealed to citizens to strictly follow the Citizen Charter under GRAP Stages 1, 2, and 3, keeping in mind the winter season.

What is the weather report for Delhi?

The national capital, Delhi, was shrouded in toxic smog and dense fog for most o last week. The air quality deteriorated to such an extent that the pollution levels reached the 'severe' category. The entire capital was covered in a thick blanket of poisonous smog. The situation worsened due to a sharp drop in temperature, following which the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a cold wave alert for several parts of the city.

What is the weather report for North India?

A cold wave continues to grip the northern parts of the country. Minimum temperatures dropped in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, with Sonamarg being the coldest place, recording a minimum temperature of minus 8.9 degrees Celsius. The Indian Meteorological Department has predicted rain and snowfall in the coming days, especially in the higher reaches of the valley.

Light snowfall occurred at some places in the higher hills of Himachal Pradesh. The national capital Delhi was shrouded in dense fog on Sunday morning, with a minimum temperature of 5.3 degrees Celsius, 2.3 degrees below average. Officials said that Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir recorded a minimum temperature of minus 4.7 degrees Celsius on Sunday.