New Delhi: In a significant development, the Supreme Court has allowed the relaxation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) measures in Delhi, permitting a shift from Stage 4 to Stage 2 as air quality shows signs of improvement. The court directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to enforce stricter measures if the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds critical levels.Court Directives on Air Quality ManagementOn Thursday, the Supreme Court mandated that GRAP Stage 3 or Stage 4 must be immediately implemented whenever the AQI crosses 350 or 400, respectively. The court will continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that air quality remains a priority. The court also expressed dissatisfaction with the delayed compensation for construction workers impacted by pollution restrictions. Justice Oka threatened contempt proceedings against Delhis Chief Secretary for failing to disburse promised payments, highlighting that only Rs 2,000 had been given to each of the 90,000 registered workers instead of the promised Rs 8,000.Improvement in Delhis Air QualityDelhis air quality has improved significantly, with the AQI settling in the moderate category at 161. Out of 38 monitoring stations, only six reported poor air quality levels, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). An AQI between 101 and 200 is classified as moderate, while levels above 300 are considered poor and above 400 are severe.The India Meteorological Department reported a drop in minimum temperatures to 8.5 degrees Celsius, contributing to better air conditions. The forecast predicts mainly clear skies with maximum temperatures reaching around 27 degrees Celsius.
