On May 23, 2025, the Sub-Committee on Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) revoked Stage-I of GRAP across the National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect. This decision was made in response to significant improvements in Delhi’s air quality, supported by favorable meteorological conditions.
Improved Air Quality in Delhi-NCR
Moderate AQI Levels Achieved
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded 129 on May 23, 2025, falling within the Moderate category, as per the daily AQI Bulletin by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The Sub-Committee reviewed air quality parameters and forecasts by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) and India Meteorological Department (IMD), which predicted sustained Moderate AQI levels in the coming days, prompting the revocation of GRAP Stage-I measures.
Ongoing Efforts to Sustain Air Quality
Strengthening Compliance
Despite revoking Stage-I, the CAQM urged agencies in NCR state governments and the Government of NCT of Delhi (GNCTD) to maintain strict compliance with statutory directions, advisories, and guidelines issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), CPCB, and state pollution control boards. Emphasis was placed on dust mitigation measures and adherence to the CAQM’s comprehensive policy to prevent air quality from slipping into the Poor category.
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| AQI on May 23, 2025 | 129 (Moderate category) |
| GRAP Stage-I Status | Revoked with immediate effect |
| Forecast | Moderate AQI expected in coming days |
| Focus Area | Dust mitigation and compliance with pollution control guidelines |
Continuous Monitoring and Future Actions
Proactive Air Quality Management
The CAQM Sub-Committee will continue to closely monitor the air quality scenario in Delhi-NCR, reviewing the situation periodically based on IITM/IMD forecasts. This ensures timely decisions to reinstate GRAP measures if air quality deteriorates, maintaining a proactive approach to pollution control.
Key Highlights
- CAQM Sub-Committee revoked Stage-I of GRAP in NCR on May 23, 2025, due to improved air quality.
- Delhi’s AQI recorded at 129 (Moderate category) on May 23, 2025.
- IMD/IITM forecasts predict sustained Moderate AQI levels in the coming days.
- Agencies urged to enforce dust mitigation measures and comply with pollution control guidelines.
- CAQM to continuously monitor air quality for timely pollution control decisions.