In a significant development, the Supreme Court on Thursday allowed the relaxation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 4 measures to Stage 2 in Delhi, citing improved air quality levels in the region. However, the court emphasized strict vigilance and directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to reimplement stricter measures if air pollution spikes.
The bench ruled that on any day when the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses the thresholds of 350 or 400, GRAP Stage 3 or Stage 4 measures must be immediately re-enforced. The court underscored the importance of real-time monitoring to protect public health during the ongoing winter season, notorious for severe air quality deterioration.
