Thu Jan 16 20:15:15 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Lifts Strictest Air Pollution Restrictions as Air Quality Improves

**New Delhi, India** – Delhi has lifted its Stage 4 air pollution restrictions, implemented under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), following an improvement in air quality. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) announced the revocation on Thursday, citing a decrease in the Air Quality Index (AQI) from 386 on Wednesday to 302 on Thursday. While this remains in the “very poor” category, it represents a significant improvement.

The CPCB however, stated that less stringent anti-pollution measures under GRAP-III will remain in place across the Delhi-NCR region. These measures include restrictions on older petrol and diesel vehicles (BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel), as well as a ban on non-essential diesel goods vehicles with BS-IV or older emission standards. Schools will continue online classes for students up to Class 5, with online learning options available for other grades where applicable.

While the immediate threat has eased, the CPCB cautioned that the AQI is expected to remain in the lower end of the “very poor” category for the coming days, based on meteorological forecasts. The Stage 4 restrictions, triggered when the AQI surpasses 400, were implemented on Wednesday following a sharp deterioration in air quality. The Supreme Court mandates the implementation of different GRAP stages based on AQI levels.

Read More