With a notable drop in air pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Monday (Feb 24) withdrew Stage 2 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Delhi’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 186—significantly below the Stage 2 threshold of 300—prompted the decision.

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Resumption of activities  

Following the rollback of Stage 2 measures, several previously restricted activities can now resume:

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- Coal and firewood use reinstated: Restaurants and hotels can once again use tandoors. 

- Diesel generators permitted: These can be operated without restrictions.

- Construction and industrial activity resume: Sites and units previously halted under Stage 2 curbs can restart operations. 

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- Interstate buses allowed: Buses from NCR states can now enter Delhi without limitations. 

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The GRAP system classifies air quality into four stages: 
- Stage I (Poor): AQI 201-300  
- Stage II (Very Poor): AQI 301-400  
- Stage III (Severe): AQI 401-450  
- Stage IV (Severe Plus): AQI above 450 

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) predict air quality will remain in the "moderate to poor" category in the coming days. 

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Continued pollution control efforts

Authorities will maintain pollution mitigation efforts despite the relaxation of restrictions, including: 
- Mechanised road sweeping and anti-smog gun deployment to control dust levels. 
- Water sprinkling in high-pollution areas to minimise airborne particulate matter. 
- Ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply to discourage diesel generator use. 

(With inputs from agencies)