New Delhi: Residents of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) can heave a sigh of relief as the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Friday revoked all curbs under Stage-3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), effective immediately. The decision follows a notable improvement in air quality, with the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping sharply to 236 by 4 pm on January 2, 2026, from 380 the previous day.
The CAQM’s Sub-Committee on GRAP, after reviewing meteorological forecasts and the declining pollution trend, determined that the stringent Stage-3 measures—typically triggered when AQI enters the ‘Severe’ range (401-450)—were no longer necessary. However, restrictions under Stage-1 (AQI 201-300) and Stage-2 (AQI 301-400) will continue to remain in force to prevent any reversal during the ongoing winter season.
Key Relaxations Now in Effect
– Schools Return to Normal: Physical classes can resume fully, including for younger students (up to Class 5) who were previously on hybrid or restricted modes. This comes as a major respite for parents and children disrupted by earlier curbs.
– Construction Activities Resume: Bans on non-essential construction, demolition, and related works have been lifted, allowing housing projects, private developments, and other sites to restart operations.
– Offices at Full Capacity: The advisory for 50% work-from-home in government and private offices has been withdrawn, enabling full attendance and smoother workplace functioning.
Despite the easing, basic prohibitions like open waste burning remain strictly enforced. Diesel generators can now be used in emergencies, subject to guidelines.
Understanding GRAP Stages
The GRAP is a tiered emergency response framework:
– Stage-1 (‘Poor’): Focuses on preventive measures like dust control and vehicle maintenance.
– Stage-2 (‘Very Poor’): Adds restrictions on certain industries and older vehicles.
– Stage-3 (‘Severe’): Imposes tougher curbs, including construction bans and hybrid schooling.
– Stage-4 (‘Severe+’): Extreme measures like truck entry bans and odd-even vehicle schemes (not invoked currently).
Authorities have urged citizens to adhere to the GRAP Citizen Charter—such as using public transport, avoiding idling engines, and reporting violations—to sustain the gains. The Sub-Committee will monitor AQI daily and may reimpose higher stages if conditions worsen.
This development marks a positive beginning to 2026 for Delhi-NCR, where winter pollution often peaks due to low winds and temperature inversion. While favourable weather played a role in the recent improvement, ongoing enforcement of lower-stage measures aims to keep pollution in check.
