Efforts to Combat Air Pollution: CAQM’s Action Plan for Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is actively working with state governments of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan to tackle air quality issues. A comprehensive action plan has been developed, and regular reviews are being conducted.
Action Against Stubble Burning
The CAQM has empowered district authorities to take action against officials who do not enforce restrictions on stubble burning in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and NCR areas of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. This is crucial as stubble burning significantly contributes to air pollution, especially during winter when pollutants are trapped, leading to hazardous air quality.
Special Drive Against Polluting Vehicles
A special initiative targeting polluting and unfit vehicles has been launched in Delhi and NCR. Continuous reviews are being conducted at various levels, including the Environment Ministry and CAQM.
Monitoring and Coordination
From September 15 to October 9, 267 and 187 paddy residue burning events were reported in Punjab and Haryana, respectively. To address this, the CAQM has deployed 26 Central teams to hotspot districts in these states to work closely with district authorities. A dedicated cell in Chandigarh has been established for ongoing monitoring and coordination.
Legal Empowerment
The CAQM has authorized Deputy Commissioners and other officials in Punjab, Haryana, NCR areas of Rajasthan and U.P., and Delhi to file complaints against inaction by officials responsible for enforcing stubble burning restrictions.
Supreme Court’s Criticism
Last month, the Supreme Court criticized the CAQM for not taking sufficient steps to curb air pollution in the NCR, urging more proactive measures.
Doubts Revealed
CAQM -: CAQM stands for the Commission for Air Quality Management. It is a government body in India responsible for improving air quality and reducing pollution in the National Capital Region and surrounding areas.
Stubble burning -: Stubble burning is the practice of setting fire to the straw and leftover crop residue in fields after harvest. It is common in Punjab and Haryana and contributes significantly to air pollution.
Non-compliance -: Non-compliance means not following the rules or guidelines set by authorities. In this context, it refers to not following the measures to reduce air pollution.
Central teams -: Central teams are groups of people sent by the central government to monitor and ensure that the action plan to reduce air pollution is being followed properly.
Chandigarh -: Chandigarh is a city in India that serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana. It is also a Union Territory, meaning it is directly governed by the central government.
Supreme Court -: The Supreme Court is the highest judicial court in India. It has the authority to make important decisions and give directions to ensure laws are followed.