In a bold escalation of the battle against Delhi-NCR’s toxic air, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) convened on Wednesday to dissect recent enforcement data. The outcome? Proposals to shutter 14 polluting units and seal DG sets at 27 sites, signaling zero tolerance for pollution rule-breakers.
This stemmed from the Enforcement Task Force’s (ETF) 127th session, which delved into 79 reports from inspections spanning February 19 to March 13. Focus areas included dusty construction sites, rogue industries, unmanaged road dust, and illegal DG set operations.
Enforcement actions were swift: 14 units earmarked for closure, 27 DG sets for sealing, and 20 show-cause notices slapped on offenders. Violators must reply within five days, or face consequences.
The ETF pushed for upgraded flying squads, incorporating CPCB and state pollution board reps to heighten oversight and compliance.
Spotlight also fell on road dust mitigation by key players—Delhi civic bodies, DDA, PWD, and highway authorities. Lapses prompted notices and mandated fixes.
Looking broader, CAQM noted flying squads’ massive outreach: 26,498 inspections, 1,743 closures ordered. Reinstatements followed for 1,317 compliant units post-checks; 123 escalated to boards, 303 under process.
As smog continues to choke the region, CAQM vows intensified measures, seamless agency teamwork, and unyielding norm enforcement to reclaim breathable air.