The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) recently reviewed inspection outcomes and enforcement actions in the National Capital Region (NCR). During the 127th meeting of the Enforcement Task Force (ETF) on March 17, discussions centered on proposals to close 14 non-compliant units and seal diesel generator sets at 27 establishments to address pollution violations. Inspections conducted between February 19 and March 13 across various sectors, including construction, industries, road dust management, and diesel generator sets, were scrutinized.
According to the Commission, a total of 79 inspection reports were assessed during the 16-day reporting period. As a result, closure recommendations were made for 14 units, while 27 units faced sealing of their diesel generator sets. Additionally, Show Cause Notices (SCNs) were issued to 20 entities for failing to comply with pollution control norms. The ETF emphasized the importance of prompt responses from defaulting entities, urging them to provide replies within five days of receiving preliminary inspection reports.
The Enforcement Task Force also suggested enhancing the inspection mechanism by bolstering Flying Squad teams with officers from the Central Pollution Control Board and state Pollution Control Boards. This move aims to ensure greater accountability and effectiveness in enforcement actions. Sector-specific enforcement related to road dust management was reviewed, with corrective measures taken in areas under various agencies, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the Public Works Department, and the National Highways Authority of India, among others. Violations identified during these inspections led to the issuance of show-cause notices to the responsible agencies.
Reviewing the cumulative enforcement status as of March 17, the Commission highlighted that Flying Squads have inspected a total of 26,498 units, projects, and entities across the NCR. Consequently, 1,743 closure directions were issued for non-compliance, with 1,317 units permitted to resume operations post-compliance verification. Meanwhile, 123 cases were referred to state pollution control boards for final decisions, and requests for resumption from 303 entities are currently under examination. The Commission reiterated its dedication to combating air pollution in the region, stressing the importance of robust enforcement, inter-agency coordination, and adherence to environmental norms for effective pollution control in the NCR.
