Good news for Delhiites! The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage III restrictions have been revoked in the National Capital Region (NCR) following a significant improvement in air quality. This means that the ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers, which had been in place since November 2nd, 2023, has been lifted.
Delhi breathes a sigh of relief as GRAP Stage III restrictions lifted, BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles back on the road
Good news for Delhiites! The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage III restrictions have been revoked in the National Capital Region (NCR) following a significant improvement in air quality. This means that the ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers, which had been in place since November 2nd, 2023, has been lifted.
The decision was taken by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Tuesday, November 29th, 2023, after the city's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) dropped from 395 on Monday to 312 on Tuesday. The AQI had been hovering in the "severe" category for several days before finally showing signs of improvement.
The lifting of the GRAP Stage III restrictions will be a welcome relief for many Delhi residents who rely on their vehicles for commuting and other purposes. However, it is important to note that the CAQM has cautioned that actions under Stage I and Stage II of the GRAP will still be in place. These include measures such as a ban on open burning, hot mix plants, and stone crushers.
The improvement in air quality can be attributed to a number of factors, including recent rainfall and a decrease in construction activity. However, experts warn that Delhi's air quality remains highly vulnerable to seasonal changes and weather conditions. It is therefore important to continue to take steps to reduce pollution, such as using public transportation, carpooling, and avoiding the use of personal vehicles on high-pollution days.
Here are some of the key takeaways from the lifting of the GRAP Stage III restrictions:
The ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and the NCR has been lifted.
The decision was taken by the CAQM after the city's AQI dropped from "severe" to "moderate."
Actions under Stage I and Stage II of the GRAP will still be in place.
Delhi's air quality remains vulnerable to seasonal changes and weather conditions.
It is hoped that the lifting of the GRAP Stage III restrictions will be a temporary measure and that Delhi will be able to continue to improve its air quality in the long term.
Additional points to consider:
The economic impact of the ban on BS-III and BS-IV vehicles.
The long-term plans for improving air quality in Delhi.
The role of public awareness and education in reducing pollution.
