Wed Dec 24 12:32:45 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

On December 24, 2025, Delhi’s air quality showed improvement, moving from ‘severe’ to ‘very poor’. Consequently, the Commission for Air Quality Management revoked Stage 4 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). However, Stage 1, 2, and 3 restrictions remain in place. The Delhi government will continue its ‘No PUC, No fuel’ policy despite the easing of GRAP 4 restrictions.

News Article:

Delhi Breathes Easier: Air Quality Improves, Stage 4 Restrictions Lifted

New Delhi – December 24, 2025 – Delhi residents woke up to slightly cleaner air this morning as the Air Quality Index (AQI) improved from ‘severe’ to ‘very poor’, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to revoke Stage 4 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

The CAQM’s decision, effective immediately, lifts the ban on construction activities and allows non-essential polluting trucks back into the city. Schools can also resume in-person classes for all grades, ending the hybrid learning model previously mandated for younger students.

While the improvement is welcome, restrictions under Stage 1, 2, and 3 of GRAP remain in effect, indicating that air pollution remains a concern. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI stood at 336 this morning, a noticeable improvement from Tuesday’s reading of 415.

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa confirmed that the Delhi government would continue its ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ policy, ensuring that vehicles without valid Pollution Under Control certificates will not be able to purchase fuel, regardless of the GRAP stage.

Stage 4 restrictions, implemented on December 13th, had also prohibited the entry of non-essential diesel trucks into Delhi and banned Delhi-registered BS-IV and older diesel-run heavy goods vehicles, except those providing essential services.

The slight improvement in air quality offers a temporary reprieve, but continued efforts are needed to combat air pollution in the long term.

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