Supreme Court Criticizes CAQM: A Wake-Up Call for Action
Summary
The Supreme Court has expressed strong disapproval of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its perceived lack of effective action in curbing air pollution in Delhi-NCR. The court's criticism serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent need for CAQM to adopt a more proactive and comprehensive approach. The court emphasized that CAQM must take concrete steps to address the root causes of pollution, rather than merely reacting to the symptoms. This includes stringent enforcement of existing regulations, promoting cleaner technologies, and fostering greater public awareness. The SC's intervention underscores the severity of the air pollution crisis in Delhi and the importance of holding regulatory bodies accountable for their performance. The court's message is clear: CAQM must demonstrate a renewed commitment to protecting public health and ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable environment for the region.
Full Analysis
The Supreme Court has expressed strong disapproval of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its perceived lack of effective action in curbing air pollution in Delhi-NCR. The court's criticism serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent need for CAQM to adopt a more proactive and comprehensive approach. The court emphasized that CAQM must take concrete steps to address the root causes of pollution, rather than merely reacting to the symptoms. This includes stringent enforcement of existing regulations, promoting cleaner technologies, and fostering greater public awareness. The SC's intervention underscores the severity of the air pollution crisis in Delhi and the importance of holding regulatory bodies accountable for their performance. The court's message is clear: CAQM must demonstrate a renewed commitment to protecting public health and ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable environment for the region.
Background Context
The issue of air pollution in Delhi-NCR has a long and complex history, dating back to the rapid industrialization and urbanization of the region in the late 20th century. The increasing number of vehicles, coupled with industrial emissions and agricultural practices like stubble burning, contributed significantly to the deteriorating air quality. Early attempts to address the problem included the introduction of CNG for public transport and the closure of polluting industries. However, these measures proved insufficient to tackle the scale of the problem. The Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) was established in 1998 to implement the Environment Protection Act, 1986, but its powers were limited. The need for a more comprehensive and empowered body led to the formation of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in 2020.
Current Developments
In recent years, there has been increased focus on addressing air pollution through various initiatives. The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), launched in 2019, aims to reduce PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations by 20-30% by 2024. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is implemented during periods of severe air pollution, imposing restrictions on construction, vehicular movement, and industrial activities. The CAQM has been actively involved in coordinating efforts between different states and agencies to combat air pollution. However, challenges remain in terms of effective enforcement, technological solutions, and public awareness. Future outlook includes greater emphasis on promoting electric vehicles, cleaner fuels, and sustainable agricultural practices. The Supreme Court's recent criticism highlights the need for CAQM to adopt a more proactive and result-oriented approach.
Key Facts
- SC criticizes CAQM for inaction on Delhi pollution
- CAQM needs proactive, comprehensive approach
- Enforce regulations, promote clean tech, raise awareness
Practice MCQs
Question 1
Consider the following statements regarding the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM):
1. It was constituted under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
2. It has the power to impose environmental compensation on industries violating air quality norms.
3. The Commission's directions prevail over the directions issued by the State Pollution Control Boards in the NCR region.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect as the CAQM was constituted through an Act of Parliament, not directly under the Environment Protection Act. Statements 2 and 3 are correct, highlighting the Commission's powers and its overriding authority in the NCR region.
Mains Practice Questions
Question 1
Critically analyze the effectiveness of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in addressing air pollution in Delhi-NCR. What are the major challenges faced by the Commission, and what measures can be taken to enhance its performance?
Previous Year Questions
PYQ 1 - UPSC Prelims 2023 2023
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)?
1. It was constituted by the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
2. It has the power to impose environmental compensation on industries violating pollution norms.
3. It is chaired by the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: The CAQM was constituted by an Act of Parliament in 2021. The Chairperson is not the Union Minister. It does have the power to impose environmental compensation.
PYQ 2 - UPSC Mains 2023 2023
The Supreme Court has recently criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its perceived inaction in curbing air pollution in Delhi-NCR. Discuss the reasons for the CAQM's limited success and suggest measures to enhance its effectiveness.
PYQ 3 - SSC CGL 2023 2023
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) primarily focuses on which region?
- (a) Mumbai Metropolitan Region
- (b) Delhi-NCR
- (c) Kolkata Metropolitan Area
- (d) Chennai Metropolitan Area
Explanation: The CAQM is specifically mandated to address air pollution issues in the Delhi-NCR region.
PYQ 4 - SSC CHSL 2023 2023
Which of the following is NOT a stated objective of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)?
- (a) Improving air quality
- (b) Coordinating efforts to control pollution
- (c) Promoting renewable energy sources
- (d) Providing financial assistance to polluting industries
Explanation: The CAQM aims to control pollution, not to subsidize polluting industries.
PYQ 5 - IBPS PO 2023 2023
The Supreme Court's criticism of the CAQM primarily relates to its performance in which area?
- (a) Financial regulation
- (b) Environmental protection
- (c) Labor law enforcement
- (d) Consumer protection
Explanation: The CAQM is an environmental body, so the criticism relates to its environmental protection efforts.
PYQ 6 - SBI PO 2023 2023
Which of the following actions would be most aligned with the Supreme Court's recommendations for the CAQM?
- (a) Reducing monitoring of polluting industries
- (b) Increasing public awareness campaigns
- (c) Delaying the implementation of stricter emission norms
- (d) Decreasing fines for polluters
Explanation: The SC emphasized the need for greater public awareness as a key component of pollution control.
PYQ 7 - CDS 2023 2023
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) was established to address air pollution in:
- (a) All major Indian cities
- (b) Coastal regions of India
- (c) Himalayan states
- (d) Delhi-NCR and adjoining areas
Explanation: The CAQM's jurisdiction is specifically limited to Delhi-NCR and its surrounding areas.
PYQ 8 - CDS 2023 2023
Which of the following is a likely reason for the Supreme Court's criticism of the CAQM?
- (a) Over-regulation of industries
- (b) Ineffective enforcement of pollution control measures
- (c) Lack of public awareness campaigns
- (d) All of the above
Explanation: The SC's criticism stems from the CAQM's perceived lack of effective action, pointing to enforcement issues.