Delhi and its surrounding areas witnessed a much-needed respite from the choking smog as continuous rains helped improve air quality in the region. The 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 324 on Friday evening, marking a significant decline in pollution levels. The improvement prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to lift stringent restrictions under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), though measures under Stage 2 remain in effect.
The rains, coupled with favorable meteorological conditions, have significantly contributed to the improvement, and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology predict further relief in the coming days. However, authorities remain cautious and have kept certain pollution control measures in place to ensure the situation does not deteriorate again.
Under Stage 2 of GRAP, measures such as mechanized road sweeping, daily water sprinkling, and the use of anti-smog guns will continue, especially in pollution hotspots across the region. Power suppliers have also been instructed to ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply to reduce reliance on diesel generator sets, which are known to contribute to air pollution.
The use of coal and firewood, including tandoors in restaurants and hotels, remains strictly prohibited, and the ban on diesel generators persists, except for emergency and essential services. Construction and demolition activities at sites with specific closure orders are also not allowed to resume.
To prevent a relapse into “very poor” or “severe” air quality levels, citizens are being urged to use public transport instead of personal vehicles and to take less congested routes to their destinations, even if they are slightly longer. Awareness campaigns via newspapers, television, and radio are also being rolled out to keep residents informed about air quality and pollution control measures.
While the rains have brought a sense of relief, the CAQM emphasized the need for continued vigilance. Authorities and citizens alike remain hopeful that the combination of weather conditions and proactive measures will sustain the improvement and pave the way for cleaner air in the national capital region.