The Supreme Court has approved significant revisions to the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for the National Capital Region, enabling stricter pollution-control measures. The changes, proposed by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), come as toxic winter air in Delhi shows no improvement.

What is the new GRAP rule?

Under the revised framework, several directives previously reserved for Stage 4 (AQI above 450) may now be imposed at Stage 3 (AQI 401–450). Similarly, Stage 3 measures will be applied at Stage 2 (AQI 301–400), and Stage 2 directives at Stage 1 (AQI 201–300).

A bench of Chief Justice of India Bhushan R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran said proactive steps to cut pollution were welcome, adding that CAQM must consult all stakeholders while finalising changes.

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