Delhi Achieves Cleanest Air Since October 2025, All GRAP Curbs Revoked

Delhi recorded its cleanest air since October 2025 on Monday, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping to 119 in the 'moderate' category, prompting authorities to lift all pollution control measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revoked the remaining restrictions, which had been in place since October 14, 2025, under Stage 1 of GRAP. This decision followed favourable meteorological conditions, including light rainfall and gusty winds up to 40 km/h over the weekend, which helped disperse pollutants effectively.

The improvement marks a significant relief for residents after months of seasonal pollution challenges. On Sunday, several parts of the city experienced light showers and overcast skies, with Safdarjung observatory recording 0.4 mm of rainfall in the preceding 24 hours. These weather patterns, combined with sustained winds, pushed the AQI down from 175 the previous day to 119 by 4 pm Monday—the lowest since October 9, 2025, when it stood at 99 in the 'satisfactory' range. Monitoring stations showed variations, with the lowest reading at 70 in ITO and the highest at 181 in Mandir Marg.

The revocation ends curbs such as bans on coal and firewood use in tandoors at hotels, restaurants, and open eateries, as well as restrictions on diesel generator operations limited to emergency or essential purposes. Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) indicate that the AQI is likely to remain in the 'moderate' category in the coming days, reducing the immediate need for emergency interventions. The CAQM emphasized that this step was taken in view of the sustained improvement and to ease burdens on stakeholders while maintaining vigilance.

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Delhi's air quality woes are typically most acute during winter months due to factors like stubble burning in neighbouring states, vehicular emissions, construction dust, and unfavourable weather that traps pollutants. The 2025-2026 winter season saw multiple invocations of higher GRAP stages, but recent pre-monsoon-like weather has provided a temporary reprieve. This development aligns with broader efforts to manage pollution through science-based policies, though long-term challenges persist in the National Capital Region.

Residents and environmental experts have welcomed the cleaner air, noting its positive impact on public health amid ongoing concerns over respiratory issues. With all GRAP restrictions now lifted, normal activities can resume without limitations, though authorities continue to monitor conditions closely. The episode highlights how meteorological factors play a crucial role in Delhi's pollution dynamics, offering short-term relief even as sustained measures are needed for year-round improvements.

This milestone comes as Delhi transitions toward warmer months, when pollution levels generally ease naturally. Stakeholders hope the current trend holds, providing breathing space before the next pollution cycle potentially returns later in the year.

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