National

CAQM Lifts GRAP III Restrictions as City’s Air Quality Index Shows Improvement

Published

2 years ago

February 3, 2025

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in Delhi-NCR lifted the prohibitive measures from Stage III of its Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Monday, following an improvement in air quality. The Average Air Quality Index (AQI) for the national capital fell below the 300 mark, recorded at 286 according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Recognizing the declining trend in AQI levels, the Sub-Committee on GRAP convened a meeting on Monday to assess the regional air pollution situation, taking into account forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

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In its order, the CAQM noted, “Due to improvements in mixing height and ventilation coefficient, along with favorable meteorological conditions for pollutant dispersion, there has been a significant enhancement in Delhi’s AQI.” It further stated, “On 03.02.2025, Delhi’s AQI was recorded at 286, which is 64 points below the 350 threshold for implementing Stage III as dictated by the Supreme Court.”

Additionally, the forecast from weather agencies indicated the possibility of light rain/drizzle and favorable wind conditions in the near future. However, the CAQM stressed that measures under Stages I and II of the existing GRAP plan will remain in effect and will be monitored by all relevant agencies across the NCR to ensure AQI levels do not deteriorate.

The sub-committee has instructed all implementing agencies to maintain heightened vigilance, particularly intensifying actions under Stages I and II of the anti-pollution plan.

As a result of this new development, four-wheelers (light motor vehicles) including BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles, previously restricted under GRAP III, are now permitted on the roads. Furthermore, construction and demolition activities that were previously halted under GRAP III can also resume according to the updated anti-pollution schedule.

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National

Couple Uses Dupatta to Rescue Biker from Flash Flood

Published

2 weeks ago

September 1, 2026

Namma Kudla

National: A family in Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba risked their lives to rescue a biker trapped in a flash flood following heavy rainfall.

The incident occurred on the Kakiara-Tunuhatti road in the Bharmala area of Bhatiyat. Heavy rain caused water to flood the road, creating a strong and dangerous current.

The biker struggled to stay safe as he was caught in the fast-flowing water. Two women, including a newlywed woman, quickly used a dupatta as a makeshift rope to rescue him.

The biker held onto the dupatta while the family members pulled him towards safety. Another person also joined the rescue effort.

A video of the incident has gone viral on social media. The family’s courage and quick thinking have received widespread praise online.

National

Two Arrested for Alleged Assault on Minor Girl in Moving Bus

Published

2 weeks ago

August 31, 2026

Namma Kudla

Noida: Two men, including a bus driver and conductor, have been arrested for allegedly gang-raping a 16-year-old girl on a moving sleeper bus in Greater Noida.

Police said the incident occurred on August 4 when the girl boarded an empty bus while travelling to Noida Sector 63.

The accused allegedly assaulted the girl and later abandoned her near Kashmere Gate in Delhi, around 40 kilometres away.

Following the survivor’s complaint, police launched an investigation and arrested both accused from Timarpur in North Delhi.

The bus has been seized, and CCTV footage and forensic evidence are being examined.

Further investigation is underway.

National

21-Year-Old Model Murdered Inside Home, Gym Trainer Accused

Published

3 weeks ago

August 27, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: A 21-year-old woman was allegedly stabbed to death inside her home in West Delhi on Wednesday. The police suspect her gym trainer, identified as Imran, in the case.

The victim, identified as Muskan, was a student and model. She was reportedly alone at her home on the second floor of a building in Tilak Nagar when the incident took place.

According to the police, Imran allegedly attacked Muskan with a knife. He then fled from the spot.

Neighbours heard Muskan’s screams and rushed to her house. They found her lying in a pool of blood.

The neighbours immediately took her to a nearby hospital. However, she died while undergoing treatment.

Police teams have launched a search for the accused. Investigators are also checking CCTV footage from the area to trace his movements.

Muskan’s friend Aman said she was the youngest of three sisters. He said her elder sister, who is in Chandigarh, called him after learning about the attack.

Aman said he immediately asked another friend to reach the house and take Muskan to the hospital. By the time he arrived, an ambulance had already taken her away.

He also claimed that Muskan’s sisters had earlier told him that Imran used to harass her. He said Imran had allegedly behaved in a similar manner in the past.

The police are investigating the exact motive behind the murder. Further details are awaited.