CAQM flying squads flag 87 air pollution violations in NCR, May 11-29
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The flying squads of the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) detected 87 violations of air pollution control norms across the National Capital Region (NCR) during the 19-day period from May 11 to May 29, according to a statement released on Saturday, 6 June. The findings were presented at the 132nd meeting of the Enforcement Task Force (ETF) of the CAQM, held on Friday to assess enforcement actions, inspections, and compliance status across the region.
Breakdown of Violations
Of the 87 violations recorded, 21 were from Construction and Demolition (C&D) sites, 25 from the industrial sector, and 41 related to Diesel Generator (DG) sets. The violations were identified over 245 total inspections — comprising 31 at C&D sites, 74 in the industrial sector, and 140 focused on DG sets.
Enforcement Actions Proposed
Based on inspection reports, the CAQM has proposed the closure of 11 units or projects, sealing of 33 DG sets, issuance of 19 directions or orders for compliance, and imposition of Environmental Compensation (EC) in 13 cases. The ETF also reviewed outcomes from its 131st meeting, confirming that all actionable cases in the industrial and C&D sectors have since been addressed.
Resumption Orders and State-Wise Action
A total of 18 resumption orders have been issued following verification of compliance — 13 for industrial units and 5 for C&D sites. State-wise, Uttar Pradesh received nine resumption orders, Haryana received seven, and Rajasthan received two.
Road Dust and Local Body Violations
The ETF reviewed road dust mitigation efforts and flagged inspections conducted by the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) on 18 May, which covered nine areas and reported 37 violations. Notices have been issued to GNIDA for repetitive non-compliance on dust mitigation, cleaning, and sweeping norms. Separately, inspections by the Municipal Corporation of Ghaziabad on 26 May covered four areas and recorded 24 violations, prompting a Show Cause Notice (SCN) for repeated infractions.
Cumulative Enforcement Status
As of Friday, CAQM flying squads have cumulatively inspected 27,378 units, projects, and entities. Of these, 1,788 Closure Directions have been issued, with 1,401 Resumption Orders granted upon compliance verification. Another 123 cases have been transferred to the respective State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) or the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) for final decision, while 264 entities remain under examination for resumption orders. The Commission has reiterated the need for timely submission of inspection reports with photographic and videographic evidence, strict DG set compliance, and prompt action against violators. Enforcement pressure on NCR's air quality machinery is set to continue as summer pollution levels remain under close watch.