Delhi Lifts GRAP IV Pollution Restrictions as Air Quality Improves

National Capital Eases Emergency Curbs as Pollution Levels Drop to Poor Category

Air quality in the national capital has finally improved recently. The Commission for Air Quality Management lifted the strict Stage IV restrictions. This change happened as the Air Quality Index dropped to the poor range. As the authorities stated, "actions under stage I, II & III of the extant GRAP shall, however, remain invoked and be implemented." 

Shift to Lower GRAP Stages

Emergency bans on construction and heavy trucks are now gone. Schools and offices can now return to regular physical operations. However, the Delhi government stays alert as winter weather changes quickly. This move helps balance the economy with environmental safety. 

The administration still monitors dust levels very closely every day, while officials hope the air stays stable for the rest of the season. This shift highlights a reactive fatigue in Delhi's urban planning.

The unique problem is that lifting curbs leads to a rebound spike in emissions. This happens as projects rush to make up for lost time. Instead of shifting stages, the city needs a buffer transition protocol. This would stop the sudden surge of dust that follows strict restrictions.

Continued Focus on Vehicle Compliance

The government still keeps a strict stance on vehicle emissions. The "No PUC, No Fuel" policy remains a central pillar. Petrol pumps cannot give fuel to vehicles without a valid certificate. This ensures every car meets the required environmental standards.

Authorities have clearly noted that "all petrol, diesel and CNG retail outlets in the National Capital Territory of Delhi shall dispense fuel only to motor vehicles on production of a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC)."

Enforcement teams use cameras to monitor compliance at fuel stations. These measures target older vehicles that produce high particulate matter. Drivers must keep their documents updated to avoid heavy fines. The city aims to lower toxic output through these constant checks.

While most reports frame this as a victory, there is a digital divide here. Many drivers from rural areas lack access to digital VAHAN updates. This penalizes vulnerable transporters more than private car owners. The focus on PUC certificates is a "symptom-level" fix.

Overall, it is necessary to prioritize a scrappage-first model for commercial drivers instead. Penalizing them without providing cleaner technology can create a cycle of debt. It is more effective to promote a seamless transition for workers into sustainable alternatives through subsidies, rather than solely implementing policies that restrict current energy sources.