Delhi’s Air Quality Improves; CAQM Revokes Stage‑I GRAP Measures in NCR

Delhi’s air quality has improved sharply, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to revoke Stage‑I restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across NCR with immediate effect. The daily average AQI dropped from 175 on May 3 to 88 on May 4, aided by rainfall and favourable weather conditions.

Key Developments

• Revocation of Stage‑I GRAP: Effective May 4, 2026, all Stage‑I curbs (invoked on April 16) have been lifted across Delhi‑NCR.
• AQI Levels: Delhi’s AQI improved from 175 (‘Moderate’) on May 3 to 88 (‘Satisfactory’) on May 4, according to CPCB data.
• Forecasts: IMD and IITM predict AQI will remain in the Satisfactory to Moderate range in the coming days.

Restrictions Lifted

• Ban on coal and firewood in tandoors at hotels, restaurants, and open eateries.
• Limited use of diesel generators (now permitted beyond emergency situations).
• Heightened dust mitigation measures under Stage‑I relax.

Government Directives

• Agencies in NCR must continue implementing statutory directions, advisories, and pollution control measures issued by MoEF&CC, CPCB, DPCC, and State Governments.
• Dust mitigation and compliance with crop residue management rules remain critical to sustain improved AQI.
• CAQM will closely monitor AQI trends and re‑impose measures if pollution levels rise.

Broader Context

• GRAP Framework: 
• Stage‑I: AQI 201–300 (Poor);
• Stage‑II: AQI 301–400 (Very Poor);
• Stage‑III: AQI 401–500 (Severe);
• Stage‑IV: AQI > 450 (Severe+).
• Recent Enforcement: In April 2026, CAQM imposed ₹61.85 crore in penalties on six coal‑based thermal power plants for failing to comply with biomass co‑firing rules.

Conclusion

The revocation of Stage‑I GRAP reflects Delhi’s improving air quality and the impact of favourable weather. However, CAQM has stressed that sustained vigilance and strict compliance with pollution control measures are essential to prevent deterioration. The Commission will continue to review AQI levels and forecasts to decide on future interventions.