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CAQM Revokes Stage-I GRAP Curbs as Delhi Air Quality Improves to Satisfactory

The Commission for Air Quality Management revoked Stage-I GRAP curbs in Delhi-NCR after air quality improved to 'satisfactory' category with AQI 88. The decision follows rainfall and favourable meteorological conditions, with forecasts indicating continued satisfactory to moderate air quality. Separately, CAQM imposed Rs 61.85 crore environmental compensation on six coal-based thermal power plants for non-compliance with biomass co-firing rules. The Commission has directed state governments to remain vigilant and ensure strict implementation of pollution control measures.

Key Points: CAQM Revokes Stage-I GRAP Curbs in Delhi-NCR

  • CAQM revokes Stage-I GRAP curbs in Delhi-NCR effective immediately
  • Delhi's AQI improves to 88 in 'satisfactory' category due to rainfall
  • Rs 61.85 crore penalty imposed on six coal-based TPPs for non-compliance
  • TPPs failed to meet mandatory biomass co-firing norms under 2023 rules
  • CAQM directs states to remain vigilant and continue pollution control measures
2 min read

CAQM revokes stage-I GRAP curbs in Delhi-NCR as air quality improves

CAQM revokes Stage-I GRAP curbs in Delhi-NCR as air quality improves to 'satisfactory' category with AQI 88. Rs 61.85 crore penalty imposed on non-compliant thermal power plants.

"The Sub-Committee on GRAP, after reviewing the current air quality scenario along with forecasts from IMD and IITM, noted that AQI levels are likely to remain in the 'satisfactory to moderate' range in the coming days. - CAQM Official Order"

New Delhi, May 4

The Commission for Air Quality Management on Monday revoked actions under Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan in Delhi-NCR with immediate effect, citing significant improvement in air quality.

According to an official order dated May 4, the decision comes after Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) improved to 88 at 4:00 PM, falling in the 'satisfactory' category due to rainfall and favourable meteorological conditions.

The Sub-Committee on GRAP, after reviewing the current air quality scenario along with forecasts from IMD and IITM, noted that AQI levels are likely to remain in the 'satisfactory to moderate' range in the coming days.

In view of the improved conditions, the Commission has revoked its earlier order dated April 16, 2026, which had enforced Stage-I ('Poor' Air Quality) restrictions across the NCR.

However, the CAQM directed all concerned state governments and agencies to remain vigilant and ensure strict implementation of existing guidelines, advisories, and pollution control measures to prevent any deterioration in air quality.

The Commission further stated that it will continue to closely monitor the situation and review air quality levels periodically for any necessary action.

On April 8, the Commission for Air Quality Management in Delhi-NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) imposed Environmental Compensation (EC) totalling approximately Rs 61.85 crore on six coal-based Thermal Power Plants (TPPs) within a 300 km radius of Delhi for non-compliance with statutory provisions mandating the use of biomass along with coal.

The action follows violations of the Environment (Utilisation of Crop Residue by Thermal Power Plants) Rules, 2023, which require all coal-based TPPs to use a 5 per cent blend of biomass pellets or briquettes along with coal, with a minimum threshold of 3 per cent co-firing prescribed for FY 2024-25. These rules were notified to promote ex-situ management of crop residue, curb paddy straw burning, and mitigate air pollution in NCR and adjoining areas, a release said.

The Commission also issued Statutory Direction No. 42 dated 17.09.2021 and has continuously monitored compliance through periodic reviews, facilitated stakeholder consultations and joint inspection visits.

During review of compliance for the period 2024-25, 06 TPPs were found non-compliant. Accordingly, a Committee was constituted comprising members from CAQM, Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Sustainable Agrarian Mission on use of Agri-Residue in Thermal Power Plants (SAMARTH) and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

- ANI

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Reader Comments

J
James A
Good news for Delhiites, but the improvement is weather-dependent. We need long-term policy that doesn't rely on monsoons to clean our air. The biomass co-firing rule is promising, but implementation needs teeth. Also, why only 6 plants fined? Feels like selective enforcement.
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Priya S
As a resident of Noida, I'm relieved but also skeptical. Every year it's the same cycle - pollution spikes, GRAP implemented, rain comes, curbs lifted, then we wait for next crisis. The real issue is stubble burning in Punjab which starts again next month. Why not incentivize farmers to stop burning? The biomass rule is a step but needs more support at grassroots level.
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Rohit P
Great to see AQI at 88! But I wish they'd also target vehicle emissions more aggressively. Odd-even scheme works but let's be honest, we need permanent carpooling incentives and better metro connectivity to satellite cities. The fine on TPPs is good but Rs 61 crore is peanuts compared to damage they cause. Should be at least Rs 500 crore.
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Michael C
Good move by CAQM but the 'vigilant' part is crucial. We often see relaxations followed by rapid deterioration when rains stop. The biomass co-firing requirement is smart - uses agri-waste productively and reduces burning. But only 6 plants penalized for non-compliance suggests weak enforcement. Need stricter penalties & regular audits.
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Ananya R
As someone who jogs in the mornings, this is a huge relief! Yesterday I could actually see the sky clearly. But I humbly suggest - instead of rev

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