The central government has announced the lifting of restrictions imposed under Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR. Last year, in response to the severe air pollution in Delhi, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) initiated actions under GRAP Stage-III. This decision was prompted by the consistently ‘Severe’ Air Quality Index (AQI) for several days.

However, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average AQI is now at 346, which is below the Stage III-mark of the GRAP. As a result, the ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles has been lifted.

Despite the lifting of Stage-III restrictions, the measures outlined in Stages I and II of the GRAP will continue to be enforced, monitored, and reviewed by all relevant agencies across the entire National Capital Region (NCR).

This development brings relief to BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicle owners in Delhi-NCR. With the improved air quality and the lifting of Stage-III restrictions, these vehicle owners can now freely use their vehicles without any further limitations.

Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot confirmed the revocation of Stage-III GRAP restrictions through a social media post. He stated that, due to the improved air quality in Delhi, the restrictions on the plying of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi have been lifted until further orders.

The decision to lift Stage-III restrictions is a positive step towards promoting cleaner air in the region. However, it is important to continue implementing and monitoring the measures outlined in Stages I and II to ensure sustained improvement in air quality.

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