Wed Dec 24 13:04:39 UTC 2025: News Article: Delhi Lifts GRAP-4 Restrictions as Air Quality Improves, But Concerns Remain
New Delhi: Delhi has revoked the stringent GRAP-4 restrictions implemented last week to combat severe air pollution, citing a significant improvement in air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced the decision after a meeting of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) sub-committee, noting that favorable meteorological conditions, including high winds, have contributed to a decrease in pollution levels.
As of Wednesday, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 271, placing it in the “poor” category. This improvement prompted the removal of GRAP-4 measures, which were enacted when the AQI exceeded 450, indicating “severe-plus” air quality.
With the lifting of GRAP-4, older vehicles previously barred from Delhi roads are now permitted to operate within the city. Schools, which were mandated to conduct hybrid classes (physical and online) for students up to Class 11 (except Class 10) can now resume normal operations.
While celebrating the immediate improvement, the CAQM cautioned that air quality forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) suggest a potential rise in AQI due to anticipated slower winds in the coming days. All actions under GRAP 1 to 3 will remain in effect.
GRAP-1 restrictions come into force when the AQI is between 201 and 300 (‘Poor’), GRAP-2 restrictions when it is between 301 and 400 (‘Very Poor’), and GRAP-3 between 401 and 450 (‘Severe’).
The previous GRAP-4 restrictions had significant implications, particularly for vehicles. Only Bharat Stage (BS) 6 compliant vehicles were permitted to enter Delhi, effectively barring at least 1.2 million older vehicles registered outside the city. Authorities will still be checking for valid pollution under control (PUC) certificates at fuel stations.
Vehicular emissions are a major contributor to Delhi’s toxic air, especially in winter months when cold weather traps smog close to the ground. Experts estimate that vehicles account for up to 40 per cent of particulate pollution in the NCR, particularly in densely travelled corridors. By restricting higher-emitting vehicles, authorities hope to reduce the pollution load and safeguard public health.
The lifting of GRAP-4 provides temporary relief, Delhi authorities are closely monitoring the situation and may re-implement stricter measures if air quality deteriorates.
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