What Steps is Bhupender Yadav Taking to Address Air Pollution in Rohtak, Manesar, Panipat, and Karnal?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM10 levels in NCR cities are concerning.
- Action plans are in place for Rohtak, Manesar, Panipat, and Karnal.
- Focus on data collection for industrial compliance.
- Increased monitoring through CAAQMS.
- Awareness and stakeholder engagement are essential for pollution control.
New Delhi, Jan 20 (NationPress) Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav raised alarms regarding the elevated levels of PM10 and ongoing challenges related to solid waste management in various NCR cities of Haryana.
During the assessment of the Action Plans for Rohtak, Manesar, Panipat, and Karnal aimed at combating air pollution, Yadav indicated that he would organize a meeting with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to discuss these pressing issues.
Yadav promised swift funding and approvals for pollution control initiatives, stressing that all NCR cities should fall under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) umbrella.
While reviewing the presentations, he instructed that detailed data be gathered on industries operating with and without Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO).
The Minister directed all District Magistrates/District Collectors in NCR to compile data on CTO/CTE permissions, the total number of commercial electricity connections, and industrial units registered with GST.
This data should be analyzed to pinpoint illegally functioning and non-compliant industrial entities, particularly concerning OCEMS and Air Pollution Control Device (APCD) installations.
Yadav called for an increase in the number of automated Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) linked with the SAMEER App for real-time air quality assessments.
He highlighted the necessity of robust awareness initiatives among stakeholders whose activities contribute to pollution.
The Minister noted that smaller municipal corporations should be equipped with suitably sized commercial electric vehicles for public transit, taking into account road dimensions and passenger traffic.
The importance of utilizing Mechanical Road Sweeping Machines (MRSMs) and handheld litter pickers was emphasized, with instructions to procure only EV/CNG-based machines under the Op-Ex model.
In terms of dust control measures, directives were issued for the plantation of native bush varieties in open areas and on sidewalks, along with prompt repair of potholes.
The Minister also requested the submission of both short-term and long-term smart traffic management plans for all the cities reviewed, aimed at reducing congestion and vehicle emissions.