Air Quality Authority Expands Enforcement on Small‑Scale Demolition Sites

The Air Quality Management Commission (AQMC) recently amended its statutory directive No. 86, broadening enforcement powers across additional municipal bodies, development authorities, and urban local bodies. The change gives these agencies the right to prosecute serious violators operating on plots smaller than 500 square metres, which have been identified as significant contributors to PM10 and PM2.5 loads. The commission explained that many towns within the National Capital Region host numerous such projects, amplifying particulate emissions. With the revised framework, the AQMC expects tighter compliance and a measurable reduction in dust‑related pollution.