Following an improvement in air quality, Delhi has lifted restrictions imposed under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) – 4. Environment Minister Gopal Rai urged continued adherence to rules as GRAP stages 1, 2, and 3 persist to combat air pollution in the capital.
Addressing the press, Rai emphasised, “Despite consistent air quality improvement, vigilance is crucial to sustaining these gains.” He noted a two-day decline in pollution levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) at 290. Rai urged caution, recalling the post-Diwali AQI rise due to negligence.
With better air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management revoked GRAP 4 restrictions, allowing entry for trucks and buses (excluding BS-3 and BS-4 vehicles) and resuming construction activities.
Rai clarified that GRAP 1, GRAP 2, and GRAP 3 remain in effect, with further restrictions withdrawal contingent on pollution improvement. The truck ban lift excludes BS 3 petrol and BS 4 diesel vehicles.
Linear projects halted under GRAP 4, including roads and bridges, now have permission to resume. Rai outlined approved construction areas, including railways, metros, stations, airports, and national security projects.
Prohibited activities include boring, structural construction, demolition, loading/unloading at project sites, vehicles on unmetalled roads, benching plant operations, and mining. Rai emphasised distinguishing between GRAP 4 (lifted) and GRAP 3 (active) restrictions.
Earlier on Thursday, Rai said that a 6-member special task force has been formed under the leadership of the Environment Special Secretary for proper implementation and monitoring of GRAP rules.