Delhi Breathes Easier: CAQM Lifts GRAP-IV Curbs as AQI Improves; ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ Policy to Stay
New Delhi: In a major relief for the national capital's residents and businesses, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Wednesday revoked the stringent Stage-IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The decision comes as Delhi's air quality witnessed a significant improvement, dropping from the "Severe" category to "Poor" due to favorable meteorological conditions.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded Delhi's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) at 271 on Wednesday, a stark contrast to the severe 412 recorded just a day earlier.
The Decision: Winds Bring Respite
The CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP, in an emergency review meeting held today, noted that high surface winds have effectively dispersed pollutants over the last 24 hours.
"Noting the continuous improvement in the AQI levels... the AQI of Delhi has shown significant improvement since last night. Consequently, the Sub-Committee has decided to revoke Stage-IV of GRAP with immediate effect," the CAQM statement read.
However, the commission issued a word of caution, citing IMD/IITM forecasts that suggest a "possible increase in AQI in coming days due to slower wind speeds," urging citizens to remain vigilant.
What Changes? (Restrictions Lifted)
With the rollback of GRAP-IV, life in the capital is set to return to relative normalcy:
- Truck Entry: The ban on the entry of heavy goods vehicles (trucks) into Delhi has been lifted, easing supply chain bottlenecks.
- Construction: The ban on construction and demolition (C&D) activities for linear public projects (like highways, flyovers) is removed, though local dust control norms apply.
- Work From Home: The directive for 50% capacity in government and private offices is no longer mandatory.
- Schools: Physical classes for grades previously suspended can resume, subject to state government orders.
The Caveat: ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ Continues
Despite the relaxation of federal curbs, the Delhi Government has decided to maintain a strict stance on vehicular pollution. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced that the ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ policy will remain in force indefinitely.
Speaking to the press on Tuesday, Minister Sirsa emphasized that the fight against pollution is far from over.
"Driving without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate is no less than committing a crime against Delhi’s air. Strict enforcement will persist regardless of GRAP status," Sirsa stated.
Enforcement Crackdown: The Transport Department has reportedly intensified its drive:
- 12 PUC Centers Suspended: In a recent crackdown, the licenses of 12 PUC centers were suspended for issuing fraudulent certificates.
- Fuel Station Checks: Marshals and transport officials continue to be deployed at petrol pumps to ensure compliance.
Analysis: A Temporary Relief?
While the lifting of GRAP-IV is a welcome respite for the economy—particularly for the transport and construction sectors—experts warn that Delhi is not out of the woods. The reliance on wind speed rather than structural changes to control pollution remains a concern. With winter peaking in January, the possibility of the AQI slipping back into the 'Severe' zone remains high if wind speeds dip.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The revocation of GRAP-IV is a breath of fresh air—literally and metaphorically—for Delhiites. However, the government's decision to retain the 'No PUC, No Fuel' policy signals a shift towards year-round accountability rather than just emergency firefighting. The message is clear: the emergency may be over, but the emergency measures for vehicles are here to stay.