The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Friday scrapped GRAP-3 curbs in the Delhi-NCR region after significant improvement in air quality, officials said, according to PTI. However, they added that all actions under Phases I and II of the existing GRAP will remain in place.
“In view of the prevailing air quality trend, the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP has decided to withdraw with immediate effect in the entire NCR all measures as envisaged under Stage III of the existing GRAP,” the order said. He mentioned that Delhi’s AQI, which was 380 yesterday, has improved significantly and has come down to 236 at 4 pm today, showing a downward trend.
Republic Day rehearsals continue amid smog and thick fog
On the second day of the new year 2026, Delhi was enveloped in a thick layer of smog and dense fog, drastically reducing visibility in several parts of the national capital, according to ANI, even as the Republic Day exams were held at India Gate under difficult conditions.
Drone footage from Sarai Kale Khan showed poor visibility in the early hours around 7:15 am, while ground footage from areas near AIIMS, Akshardham Temple and other parts of the city revealed roads, buildings and traffic covered in fog and smog. The situation was further aggravated by cold wave conditions, which affected the routine morning movement in many locations.
Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category for the second consecutive day in New Year 2026. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was at 348 around 8 am, approaching the ‘severe’ category.
Pollution levels at several monitoring stations were alarming. Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 348, RK Puram 319, Rohini 315 and Mundka 324. Chandni Chowk registered 340 while ITO reported 292. Bawana recorded an AQI of 227 and IGI Airport recorded 219, reflecting poor to very poor air quality in the city.
Despite reduced visibility and deteriorating air quality, Republic Day preparations continued at India Gate, with a haze of smog enveloping the surroundings as security personnel and parade participants continued their drills.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the temperature in Delhi hovered around 11 degrees Celsius on Friday morning, with very dense fog observed in the morning hours and expected to persist through the day. Weather conditions are likely to improve from Saturday, he noted.
The IMD further said that the maximum and minimum temperatures in Delhi on Friday are expected to be between 15°C and 17°C and 9°C and 11°C respectively. While minimum temperatures are likely to remain 2°C to 4°C above normal, maximum temperatures are expected to remain well below normal.
(With input from agencies)
