Overview
The CAQM Sub‑Committee has withdrawn all actions under GRAP in the NCR. The decision follows a sharp fall in Delhi’s AQI from 207 on 28 May 2026 to 123 on 29 May 2026, moving the city into the ‘Moderate’ band.
Key Developments
- 29 May 2026: CAQM revokes Stage‑I of GRAP across the entire NCR with immediate effect.
- Delhi’s daily average AQI dropped to 123 (moderate) after strong winds and light rain.
- IMD/IITM forecasts predict the AQI will stay in the ‘Moderate’ range for the next few days.
- The Sub‑Committee advises all state and Delhi agencies to strictly implement existing statutory directions, advisories, and orders issued by the MoEFCC, CPCB, and respective State Pollution Control Boards and DPCC.
Important Facts
The CAQM had earlier invoked Stage‑I of GRAP on 19 May 2026 when AQI trends began rising. Stage‑I typically includes measures such as restricting construction activities, limiting diesel generator use, and curbing vehicular emissions. The present revocation does not cancel these rules; it merely suspends the emergency actions while the air quality remains acceptable.
Weather conditions played a decisive role: strong winds dispersed pollutants, and light rain helped wash them out of the atmosphere, leading to the observed AQI improvement.
Relevance for UPSC
Understanding the GRAP mechanism is essential for GS‑III (Environment) as it illustrates how the government operationalises air‑quality management through a graded response. The coordination between central min