Delhi breathes easy! GRAP restrictions lifted as AQI sees significant improvement

Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has suspended all Stage-1 restrictions imposed under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi and National Capital Region (NCR) after air quality improved significantly. The decision has been taken as Delhi saw its Air Quality Index (AQI) on March 15, 2025, at 85, 116 points lower than the benchmark of 201 for enforcing Stage-1. The sub-committee revoked its earlier order from March 7, which had imposed restrictions due to "poor" air quality.

According to the CAQM, the remarkable improvement in Delhi-NCR’s air quality can be attributed to favorable weather conditions, including light rainfall and consistent winds. On March 15, Delhi’s AQI was recorded at 85, placing it in the "satisfactory" category. Forecasts from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and IITM suggest that AQI levels will remain between "satisfactory" and "moderate" in the coming days. The official order was issued by R.K. Aggarwal, Member Secretary of the sub-committee and Director (Technical).

Lowest AQI in three years

Delhi’s average AQI of 85 on Saturday is the lowest recorded during the January-to-March period in three years. CAQM pointed out that this is the first day in 2025 when air quality has dipped into the "satisfactory" zone (50-100). The commission pointed out that March has seen such clean air for the first time since 2020. Posting the milestone on social media, CAQM stated, "Today's AQI of 85 is the lowest in three years during this period and marks a significant achievement in pollution control efforts."

Sustaining progress amid challenges

CAQM has instructed all NCR agencies to keep up-to-date AQI levels and avoid deterioration into the "poor" category. Particular focus has been laid on regulation of dust pollution due to construction work and roads, which might affect air quality in the months to come. Agencies have been directed to carry out measures in defined timelines within a holistic policy framework.

Relief for residents

This enhancement brings relief to Delhi residents, who otherwise experience unsafe air quality at this time of year. An AQI of "satisfactory" reflects pollution levels that are safe for overall health, but sensitive groups should take precautions. The success serves to reinforce the effectiveness of anti-pollution efforts while noting the need for continued effort in order to gain long-term benefit.