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Amid ongoing air pollution concerns in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has stressed the urgent need for strict enforcement of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II).
In a recent meeting, the Sub-Committee on Safeguarding & Enforcement reviewed actions by NCR state governments and the Delhi government to curb pollution, with a focus on sectors contributing significantly to the issue. The meeting highlighted several critical areas requiring action. It underscored the need for monitoring and enforcing measures to control paddy stubble burning, a major source of air pollution. Additionally, the committee assessed the implementation of CAQM guidelines on vehicular pollution, including the disposal of end-of-life vehicles under the Revised Vehicle Scrapping Policy. The effectiveness of the Pollution Under Control (PUC) regime was also reviewed, particularly regarding the issuance of challans for vehicles with expired PUCs and those emitting visible pollution. The CAQM urged urban local bodies in Delhi to increase parking charges and called for expanding city bus services across various NCR areas. Compliance with emissions standards in industries was scrutinised, alongside inspections by State Pollution Control Boards. The committee reinforced the importance of adhering to the firecracker ban, especially during festival seasons that coincide with peak paddy harvesting. To implement the revised GRAP schedule, which includes preventive and restrictive actions for different air quality levels, the commission highlighted the importance of collaboration among all agencies. GRAP outlines 27 actions for Stage I, 11 for Stage II, 11 for Stage III, and 8 for Stage IV, covering measures such as intensified mechanised sweeping, anti-smog gun deployment, and restrictions on diesel generator usage. The CAQM emphasised the need for ongoing inspections and strict action against any violations of statutory directions. Implementing agencies agreed to regularly review air pollution control measures and take decisive steps to reduce pollution across sectors. Furthermore, state governments were directed to increase the use of mechanised road sweeping and to install anti-smog guns on high-rise buildings to address pollution hotspots effectively. (ANI)
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