Air quality improves, GRAP Stage 3 restrictions lifted

of the center air quality panel Citing improvement in air pollution in Delhi and surrounding areas on Sunday, January 5, Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Of Stage 3 Sanctions lifted. Before this, 3 January Stage 3 restrictions were reimposed due to worsening air quality.

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): Categories of Air Quality

GRAP is divided into four phases based on air quality index (AQI):

1. Phase I (Bad): AQI 201-300.
2. Phase II (Very Bad): AQI 301-400.
3. Phase III (severe): AQI 401-450.
4. Phase IV (Severe Plus): AQI more than 450.

Key provisions of Stage 3 restrictions

When AQI reaches between 401-450, Stage 3 Strict restrictions are imposed under:

• Prohibition on construction and demolition activities:
  • Non-essential construction and demolition work is completely stopped.
• Educational Solutions:
  • Hybrid classes are run in schools and colleges, so that children can be protected from the direct effects of pollution.

Current situation and decisions

• Improvement in air quality:
  • Improvement in pollution levels has been seen in Delhi and NCR region.
  • AQI has now come out of the “severe” category.
• Restrictions lifted:
  • Stage 3 restrictions under GRAP have now been withdrawn.
  • The removal of restrictions on construction work and other activities will have a positive impact on the lives of common people.