Fri Jan 17 03:43:37 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Lifts Strictest Air Pollution Curbs After AQI Dip

**New Delhi, January 17, 2025** – The National Capital Region (NCR) of Delhi has lifted the strictest air pollution restrictions under Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), following a decrease in pollution levels. The curbs, implemented on Wednesday, January 16th, included a ban on construction activities, restrictions on non-essential vehicle entry, and a shift to hybrid school classes for all but 10th and 12th graders. The decision comes after the air quality index (AQI) dropped from 396 on Wednesday evening. The GRAP categorizes air quality into four stages based on AQI levels, with Stage 4 representing “Severe Plus” pollution. The return to less stringent measures is attributed to improved meteorological conditions. However, winter pollution remains a significant concern in the region, driven by factors including vehicle emissions, agricultural burning, and other local pollution sources.

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