New Delhi: Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupendra Yadav conducted a detailed review of the action plan aimed at reducing air pollution in key National Capital Region (NCR) cities including Rohtak, Manesar, Panipat, and Karnal. The high-level meeting focused on measures to improve air quality across these urban centres.
The minister expressed serious concern over the persistently high levels of PM10 particles. He also highlighted challenges related to solid waste management, especially construction and demolition (C&D) waste, which is notably prevalent in industrial areas. To address these issues promptly, Bhupendra Yadav emphasised prioritising funding and approvals. A significant meeting with the Haryana Chief Minister will be convened soon to this effect. He insisted that all NCR cities should be brought under the ambit of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) to ensure uniform pollution control efforts.
During the meeting, officials presented data which the minister reviewed thoroughly before issuing several key directives. He instructed the collection of comprehensive data on all industrial units with and without Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO). District magistrates and collectors in the NCR were directed to gather information on industrial units’ permissions, electricity connections, and GST registrations. This combined data will help identify illegal or non-compliant factories, particularly concerning installation of online continuous emission monitoring systems (OCEMS) and air pollution control devices.
To strengthen real-time air quality monitoring, the minister ordered an increase in the number of automated continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations (CAAQMS) connected to the Samir app. He also stressed raising awareness among individuals and organisations contributing to pollution. Highlighting public transport, the minister recommended introducing electric public vehicles sized appropriately for road width and passenger volume, especially in smaller towns, with a focus on robust public transport systems.
For road cleanliness, instructions were given to increase the use of mechanical road sweeping machines and handheld vacuum cleaners for smaller roads. It was mandated that only electric or CNG-based machines should be procured under operational cost models. Dust control measures include planting local shrub species in open spaces and footpaths, alongside prompt repair of potholes.
To reduce traffic pollution, cities were advised to develop short-term and long-term smart traffic management plans. For construction and demolition waste, setting up collection centres within 5-kilometre grids linked to the nearest processing units was directed.
The minister urged officials to take ownership, involve local communities, and adopt innovative yet practical solutions to demonstrate strong ground-level leadership. All action points from the meeting will be compiled and monitored in real time by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The target is to achieve a 15-20 percent reduction in the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the NCR by 2026. Regular interval-based target actions and accountability will be enforced.
The meeting was attended by the CAQM chairman, representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Ministry of Agriculture, National Highways Authority of India, Central Pollution Control Board, Haryana State Pollution Control Board, and commissioners and district magistrates of the concerned cities.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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