GRAP Stage IV canceled in Delhi-NCR as AQI goes from ‘severe+’ to ‘poor’

Ankita Jain,

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The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Wednesday, December 24, canceled Phase IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR with immediate effect after reviewing the improvement in air quality levels in the region.

The decision was taken by the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP after reviewing the current air quality situation and weather forecasts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

According to the commission, Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) witnessed significant improvement from Tuesday (December 23) night due to high wind speed and favorable meteorological conditions.

On December 24, the AQI was recorded at 271, placing it in the ‘poor’ category.

However, the forecast suggests that air quality may worsen in the coming days as wind speeds are expected to slow down, the press release said.

In view of the improved conditions, the Sub-Committee withdrew its order dated December 13, 2025, imposing GRAP Stage IV measures corresponding to the ‘Severe+’ air quality level (AQI above 450).

Phases I, II and III will remain in force

CAQM clarified that actions under GRAP Phases I, II and III will be implemented across the NCR, in line with the revised GRAP schedule released on November 21, 2025. All implementing agencies have been asked to intensify measures under Phases II and III to prevent the air quality from slipping back into the ‘severe+’ category.

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Citizens urged to remain alert

While canceling Phase IV, the Commission urged citizens to strictly follow the citizen charter under GRAP Phases I, II and III, especially during the winter season when adverse meteorological conditions can lead to rapid build-up of pollutants.

The sub-committee said it will continue to closely monitor the air quality levels and review the situation from time to time, adding further decisions will be taken based on real-time data and forecasts from the IMD and IITM.

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(edited by : Shoma Bhattacharjee,

first published: December 24, 2025 at 6:48 pm Is

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