Sat Dec 28 01:39:16 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Lifts Strictest Air Pollution Curbs After Rain Improves Air Quality

**New Delhi, [Date]** – The Centre’s panel on Delhi-NCR’s air quality has lifted the stringent Stage 3 pollution curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) with immediate effect. This follows a significant improvement in air quality due to recent continuous rainfall. However, less stringent Stage 2 restrictions remain in place.

Delhi’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 324 at 7 pm on Friday, showing a downward trend. Favorable weather conditions are expected to further improve the air quality, according to forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) clarified that Stage 1 and 2 restrictions will continue. These measures include:

* **Increased dust control:** Mechanized road sweeping, anti-smog guns, and daily water sprinkling will focus on pollution hotspots.
* **Reliable power supply:** Power providers are tasked with ensuring uninterrupted electricity to minimize reliance on diesel generators.
* **Public awareness:** Air quality alerts will be disseminated via newspapers, television, and radio.
* **Public transport encouragement:** Citizens are urged to utilize public transport and avoid private vehicles whenever feasible. Choosing less congested routes, even if longer, and regularly replacing car air filters are also recommended.

**Continued Restrictions:**

Despite the easing of curbs, several restrictions under Stage 2 remain in effect:

* **Coal and firewood ban:** The use of coal and firewood, including tandoors in restaurants and hotels, remains prohibited.
* **Diesel generator restrictions:** The use of diesel generators is still banned except for essential and emergency services.
* **Construction and demolition halt:** Construction and demolition activities, along with industrial units under closure orders, will remain suspended.

The CAQM is closely monitoring the situation to prevent a return to “very poor” or “severe” air quality levels in the Delhi-NCR region.

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