New Delhi | January 22, 2026

The Commission for Air Quality Improvement (CAQM) on Thursday announced the withdrawal of Stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the Delhi-NCR region after a noticeable improvement in air quality levels. The decision comes as relief for residents who were facing stricter curbs due to rising pollution earlier.

According to the CAQM, air quality in Delhi has shown steady improvement over the past few days, largely because of favourable meteorological conditions. These changes in weather have helped disperse pollutants, leading to better overall air conditions across the region.

In its official order, the commission referred to forecasts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), which suggest that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi-NCR is likely to remain in the "moderate" to “poor” category in the coming days. Based on this outlook, authorities felt that continuing with Stage 3 restrictions was no longer necessary at this stage.

However, officials noted that air quality will continue to be closely monitored, and appropriate measures will be reintroduced if pollution levels rise again. Citizens have also been urged to remain cautious and follow pollution-control guidelines to help maintain the improving trend.

 Delhi-NCR Gets Breathing Space as GRAP-3 Curbs Withdrawn After Air Quality Improves

The Commission for Air Quality Improvement (CAQM) on Thursday announced the rollback of Stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR, bringing relief to residents. The move was taken after air quality levels showed a consistent improvement across the region.

Officials stated that the improvement in Delhi’s air quality is mainly due to favourable weather conditions. Better wind movement and other meteorological factors helped reduce pollution levels, allowing authorities to ease the strict measures that were earlier enforced.

The CAQM, in its order, referred to projections from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). As per the forecast, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Delhi-NCR region is expected to stay within the "moderate" to “poor” range in the coming days, reducing the immediate risk of severe pollution.

Despite the relaxation, the commission has said that air quality will be closely monitored. Authorities have warned that restrictions may be reimposed if pollution levels rise again, and citizens have been urged to continue following measures that help keep the air clean.