CAQM Issues 95 Directions, Monitors Delhi-NCR Air Pollution
CAQM Issues 95 Directions, Monitors Delhi-NCR Air Pollution
CAQM issues 95 directions and activates a monitoring mechanism for Delhi-NCR pollution controls, as winter air quality concerns prompt tighter action.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued 95 statutory directions to curb air pollution in Delhi-NCR. The directions cover emissions from industrial activity, construction, road dust, and vehicles, among others, and are backed by a monitoring mechanism designed to track roll-out and compliance across agencies.
Union environment minister Bhupender Yadav told Parliament that the new monitoring system will oversee the 95 directions and ensure tighter enforcement. He stressed CAQM's role in coordinating actions across Delhi, NCR, and adjoining areas and highlighted that the plan includes a dynamic weather-based model and day-to-day reviews.
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been reviewed, with steps linked to Stage I to Stage IV based on pollution severity. Authorities are empowered to trigger tougher actions as conditions worsen, with actions guided by a weather forecast and real-time AQI data.
Officials noted that the number of days with good air quality (AQI below 200) rose to about 200 in 2025, up from roughly 110 in 2016, a sign of improving but uneven progress in Delhi-NCR.
The government response comes as the Supreme Court pressed for regular monitoring and concrete steps from CAQM and others, warning against politics and urging action to address multiple pollution sources, including vehicle emissions, road dust, construction debris, and crop stubble. While the CAQM claims reforms are in place, observers say enforcement on the ground remains critical, and residents are hopeful that the new framework will translate into cleaner air this winter.
Cover image source: CAQM issued 95 statutory directions for air pollution: Govt tells Parliament 🔗
