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20 January 2026|The Hindu
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Environment & EcologyPolity & GovernanceNEWS

CAQM Flags Implementation Gaps in Delhi-NCR Pollution Control Measures

CAQM criticizes Delhi and neighboring states for pollution control implementation failures.

Background Context

The issue of air pollution in Delhi-NCR has deep historical roots, stemming from rapid industrialization, urbanization, and agricultural practices in the post-independence era. While concerns about air quality were raised as early as the 1970s, concrete policy interventions began to take shape in the 1990s with the introduction of measures like the phasing out of older vehicles and the promotion of CNG. The Supreme Court's involvement in mandating pollution control measures has been crucial, particularly through landmark judgments directing the government to take action. The establishment of bodies like the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) and later the CAQM reflects the evolving institutional framework for addressing this persistent environmental challenge. Early efforts focused on vehicular emissions and industrial pollution, but over time, the scope has expanded to include construction, dust, and agricultural stubble burning.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has criticized Delhi and neighboring states for "serious deficiencies" and "wide gaps" in implementing pollution control measures. This came as Delhi's air quality remained in the 'severe' category on 20 January 2026. The CAQM highlighted "non-compliance" by pollution control boards in enforcing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Shortcomings included inadequate deployment of road-sweeping machines and poor inspection of construction sites. The commission noted high pendency of unresolved complaints, ranging from 47% to 100%, indicating weak enforcement. For instance, during Stage III of GRAP, Delhi missed its construction site inspection target by 87%, Haryana by 99.6%, Rajasthan by 84%, and Uttar Pradesh by 96%. The CAQM has directed governments to take action against negligent officials.

Key Facts

1

CAQM criticized Delhi, neighboring states for pollution control gaps

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Delhi air quality: 'Severe' category on January 20, 2026

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GRAP: Graded Response Action Plan

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Complaint pendency: 47% to 100%

Latest Developments

Recent years have seen a greater emphasis on technology-driven solutions, such as the use of air purifiers, anti-smog guns, and real-time air quality monitoring systems. The focus has also shifted towards regional cooperation, with efforts to address stubble burning in neighboring states through incentives and alternative technologies. The introduction of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in 2019 marked a significant step towards a comprehensive national strategy to tackle air pollution. Furthermore, there's been increasing public awareness and activism, with citizens demanding greater accountability from authorities and advocating for stricter enforcement of environmental regulations. The future outlook involves a greater integration of climate change considerations into air quality management strategies, recognizing the interconnectedness of these environmental challenges.

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