Good News for Delhi: AQI Improves to Moderate Level, Anti-Pollution Curbs Withdrawn

Residents of Delhi-NCR received welcome relief on March 16 as air quality improved significantly, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to withdraw all anti-pollution measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The decision comes after the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) dropped to a healthier level, bringing better outdoor conditions for people across the capital.

According to the CAQM, Delhi's AQI stood at 119 at 4 pm, placing it in the 'moderate' category under national air quality standards. While not yet in the 'satisfactory' band, the improvement marks a positive shift from recent days when stricter pollution controls were in place across the National Capital Region.

Relief as GRAP Stage-1 Restrictions Withdrawn

With air quality improving, the authorities lifted all Stage-1 restrictions of the GRAP framework that had been enforced when pollution levels earlier entered the 'poor' category. The removal of these curbs means normal activities can resume across Delhi-NCR, although officials will continue to monitor pollution trends closely.

Weather Brings Fresh Air to the Capital

Officials said the improvement in air quality was largely supported by favourable weather conditions. Clear skies and light rainfall across the city helped disperse pollutants and temporarily improve air quality levels.

Weather data showed that several areas recorded light showers on March 15. At Safdarjung Tomb and nearby monitoring stations, rainfall was recorded in different parts of the capital. Safdarjung received 0.4 mm of rain, Lodhi Road 0.5 mm, and Ayanagar 0.8 mm, while Palam and Ridge also recorded measurable rainfall.

Following the showers, Delhi's AQI briefly improved further to 97 in the morning, placing it in the 'satisfactory' category before rising slightly later in the day.

Residents Enjoy Pleasant Weather

The improved air quality and pleasant weather encouraged many residents to spend more time outdoors. Popular public spaces and heritage sites such as Safdarjung Tomb saw visitors enjoying the cleaner air and comfortable temperatures.

AQI Categories Explained

India's Air Quality Index is divided into six categories:

• 0-50: Good
• 51-100: Satisfactory
• 101-200: Moderate
• 201-300: Poor
• 301-400: Very Poor
• 401-500+: Severe

With the AQI averaging 119 on March 16, Delhi remained in the moderate band but still showed clear improvement compared to previous pollution levels.

Temperatures Indicate Seasonal Shift

Weather conditions also reflected the gradual transition toward summer. Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 17.4°C, about 2.3°C above normal. Other monitoring stations reported similar readings, indicating warmer days ahead.