Rain Brings Relief to NCR as AQI Improves, GRAP-3 Restrictions Lifted

Ganpat Singh Chouhan

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.

rain brings relief to ncr as aqi improves grap 3 restrictions lifted

Steady Improvement in AQI

According to the CAQM, Delhi’s AQI recorded on January 17 was 289, categorized as “poor” 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 “very poor” 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, Delhi’s AQI stood at 265, according to the SAFAR app. The minimum temperature in the capital was recorded at 11°C, about 3.5°C above normal, while the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 22°C.

Four Phases of GRAP Restrictions

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) imposes restrictions in four stages based on AQI levels:

Stage 1: Poor (AQI 201–300).
Stage 2: Very Poor (AQI 301–400).
Stage 3: Severe (AQI 401–450).
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.

Author Profile

Ganpat Singh Chouhan: My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.