New Delhi, May 1 (H.S.): The level of pollution in the capital, Delhi, has improved. On Thursday, the average air quality index (AQI) of the capital was recorded at 184. In light of this, the Air Quality Management Commission (CAQM) has lifted the restrictions imposed under Phase 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the capital. According to the daily AQI bulletin provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality index in Delhi remained at 184 on Thursday.

While reviewing the overall air quality parameters and other aspects of Delhi-NCR on Thursday, the sub-committee stated that the improvement in AQI in Delhi is due to strong winds and favorable weather conditions, with a reading of 184 (in the 'Moderate' category) recorded for May 1. Additionally, the weather department's forecast predicts that AQI will remain in the 'Moderate' category for the coming days.

Therefore, taking into account this trend of improvement in Delhi's AQI, the CAQM sub-committee unanimously decided to immediately revoke Phase I of the GRAP's current schedule across the entire NCR.

The restrictions under Phase 1 of GRAP were implemented in the capital on April 2. The restrictions of GRAP-1 include the ban on the use of coal and wood in hotels and restaurants, a ban on BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles, and mandatory special measures for dust control in construction and demolition activities.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar