Fri Jan 02 19:36:40 UTC 2026: Summary:

Due to improved air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has lifted Stage III restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR. This includes ending the ban on construction and demolition, allowing BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles to operate, and permitting schools to resume full in-person operations. The 50% work-from-home mandate for government and private offices in Delhi is also lifted. However, the Air Quality Early Warning System forecasts a return to “very poor” air quality on Sunday.

News Article:

Delhi-NCR Breathes Easier: Air Quality Improves, Restrictions Lifted

New Delhi – January 2, 2026 – Residents of Delhi-NCR are breathing a sigh of relief as the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced the lifting of Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Friday, January 2nd, 2026. The move comes after a noticeable improvement in overall air quality across the region.

The CAQM has rescinded the ban on construction and demolition activities, paving the way for projects to resume. Additionally, older vehicles – specifically BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers – are once again permitted on the roads. Schools in Delhi and neighboring districts like Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar will return to full physical operation, ending the “hybrid mode” arrangements.

The lifting of Stage III restrictions also means the end of the 50% work-from-home mandate for government and private offices in Delhi. A standing order required offices to operate at half capacity with employees working remotely whenever Stage III was in effect.

While stages I and II of GRAP remain in place, Friday’s announcement brings significant relief to residents and businesses. The average air quality index (AQI) for Delhi stood at 236 (“poor”) at 4 p.m. on Friday, a marked improvement from the previous day’s 380 (“very poor”), according to the Central Pollution Control Board.

However, the improvement may be short-lived. The Centre’s Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi warns that air quality is likely to deteriorate, returning to the “very poor” category on Sunday.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to guidelines aimed at controlling air pollution, even with the current easing of restrictions.

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