The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas has taken a significant step towards air quality management by revoking Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This decision, made in response to improved air quality conditions, comes after careful review and consideration of meteorological forecasts and air quality indices. This order was issued on February 27, 2024.
The commission, in its recent meeting on February 27, 2024, noted a considerable improvement in the average Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi, consistently maintaining a “Moderate” category with an AQI of less than 200 since February 22, 2024. This positive trend in air quality is expected to continue in the coming days as per forecasts by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
As a result of these developments, the commission has decided to revoke the order issued on October 6, 2023, for actions under Stage-I of the GRAP with immediate effect. It may be recalled that in prior meetings, the Sub-Committee responsible for invoking actions under the GRAP had withdrawn measures corresponding to different stages on February 19, 2024, January 18, 2024 and November 18, 2023 for Stage II, Stage III, and Stage IV, respectively.
However, the commission emphasizes the importance of continued vigilance and compliance with statutory directions, advisories, and orders to sustain the improved air quality levels.
All concerned agencies of the State Governments/Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) in the NCR are urged to ensure strict adherence to regulations and guidelines issued by the Commission, as well as those by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Additionally, these agencies are reminded to implement targeted actions outlined in the comprehensive policy issued by the commission to combat air pollution in the region.
The sub-Committee of the commission will closely monitor the air quality scenario and make appropriate decisions based on real-time air quality data and forecasts provided by IMD/IITM. This proactive approach aims to ensure sustained improvements in air quality and mitigate the risk of slipping back into the “Poor” category.
