Delhi-NCR : The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has announced the withdrawal of Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR, effective 22 January 2026. The decision was taken after the Sub-Committee on GRAP reviewed the latest air quality data and meteorological forecasts, which indicated a steady improvement in the region’s Air Quality Index (AQI).
Background: Stage III Restrictions
Stage III of GRAP was invoked on 16 January 2026 when Delhi’s average AQI deteriorated to severe levels. The restrictions included stringent curbs on construction activities, industrial operations, and other measures aimed at reducing emissions.
However, subsequent monitoring showed a downward trend in pollution levels. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average AQI improved from 378 on 20 January to 330 on 21 January, and further to 322 on 22 January.
Factors Behind the Improvement
Officials noted that the improvement was largely due to favourable meteorological conditions, including better wind dispersion and reduced temperature inversions. Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) suggest that AQI levels are likely to remain in the “moderate” to “poor” category in the coming days.
Decision to Revoke Stage III
Considering the improving trend and the disruptive impact of Stage III restrictions on businesses and the public, the Sub-Committee unanimously decided to revoke all Stage III actions across the NCR.
At the same time, authorities stressed that Stage I and Stage II measures will continue to remain in force. These include controls on dust management, vehicular emissions, and industrial compliance. Agencies have been directed to intensify monitoring and enforcement to prevent AQI levels from worsening again.
Continued Vigilance and Compliance
The CAQM clarified that construction and demolition sites that were specifically ordered to shut down due to violations will not be allowed to resume operations unless fresh clearance is granted.
Citizens have also been urged to follow the GRAP citizen charter under Stages I and II, which includes responsible use of vehicles, avoiding open burning, and adopting energy-efficient practices. Officials emphasized that public cooperation is essential to sustain the gains in air quality.
Looking Ahead
The Sub-Committee will continue to closely monitor AQI levels and review the situation regularly. If conditions deteriorate, Stage III restrictions could be re-imposed.
The CAQM reiterated its commitment to balancing public health concerns with economic activity, highlighting that the GRAP framework remains a dynamic tool to respond to changing air quality scenarios.
For detailed guidelines, the updated GRAP schedule (November 2025) is available on the Commission’s official website: https://caqm.nic.in.
The revocation of Stage III restrictions offers temporary relief to industries and construction projects across Delhi-NCR, but authorities caution that winter weather patterns can quickly reverse the gains. With AQI levels still in the “poor” range, strict enforcement of Stage I and II measures, combined with citizen participation, will be critical to maintaining cleaner air in the region.
