Rain Brings Relief to NCR as AQI Improves, GRAP-3 Restrictions Lifted
New Delhi, January 23: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has lifted GRAP-3 restrictions in Delhi-NCR following significant improvements in the Air Quality Index (AQI) due to recent rainfall. The capital city and its neighboring areas have witnessed a steady decline in pollution levels, marking a positive shift in air quality.
Steady Improvement in AQI
According to the CAQM, Delhiโs AQI recorded on January 17 was 289, categorized as โpoorโ and 61 points below the threshold requiring Stage-III restrictions as per Supreme Court guidelines. The favorable weather, including rain and strong winds, has contributed to a significant reduction in pollution levels.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that AQI is likely to remain in the lower range of the โvery poorโ category in the coming days due to favorable meteorological conditions.
Impact of Rain on Pollution Levels
Rainfall overnight in Delhi and NCR areas has played a crucial role in clearing the pollutants from the atmosphere. The weather department has also forecast light rain and cloudy skies for Thursday, which is expected to further help in improving air quality.
As of 11 AM on Thursday, Delhiโs AQI stood at 265, according to the SAFAR app. The minimum temperature in the capital was recorded at 11ยฐC, about 3.5ยฐC above normal, while the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 22ยฐC.
Four Phases of GRAP Restrictions
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) imposes restrictions in four stages based on AQI levels:
- Stage 1: Poor (AQI 201โ300).
- Stage 2: Very Poor (AQI 301โ400).
- Stage 3: Severe (AQI 401โ450).
- Stage 4: Severe Plus (AQI above 450).
Although Stage 3 restrictions have been lifted, GRAP Stage 2 measures remain in effect to ensure pollution levels do not spike again.
Ongoing Monitoring and Precautions
CAQM and related agencies continue to monitor AQI levels closely. While the improvement in air quality is encouraging, officials have urged for vigilance to maintain and further reduce pollution levels.
