Grap down to Stage 2; schools set to reopen

THE LIFTED CURBS INCLUDE BANS ON PRIVATE C&D ACTIVITIES, AND ON THE USE OF BS-3 PETROL AND BS-4 DIESEL VEHICLES

- Jasjeev Gandhiok

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Thursday announced the revocation of all restrictions under Stage 3 and Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) with immediate effect in the National Capital Region (NCR), following directions from the Supreme Court earlier in the day. The decision lifts the bans on construction and demolition, along with all vehicular restrictions that had been in effect to curb pollution.

Hours after the announcement by CAQM, the Delhi government's Directorate of Education (DoE) issued a circular declaring that all schools will now go back to physical classes with immediate effect.

The Supreme Court, after reviewing air quality data, permitted CAQM to revoke Stage 4 measures but directed that Grap should not fall below Stage 2.

"The CAQM sub-committee, accordingly, has decided to revoke Stage-4 of Grap in the entire NCR, with immediate effect. Grap Stages 2 and 1 to however remain in-force in the entire NCR," said CAQM in a statement on Thursday evening, following a meeting held at 5.30pm.