The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas has issued a partial amendment to Direction No. 86, originally dated 02.01.2025, enhancing enforcement mechanisms for controlling dust and air pollution arising from construction and demolition (C&D) activities.
In the amended directive (dated 24.06.2025), the Commission has revised Para 18 to delegate greater powers to municipal and urban local body authorities across the NCR.
🔍 Key Changes Under the Amendment:
- Empowered Authorities:
The following officials are now authorized to initiate legal prosecution for gross violations of CAQM directions:- Commissioner / Zonal Deputy Commissioners, MCD
- Secretary, New Delhi Municipal Council
- Commissioners / Chief Executives / Deputy Commissioners of ULBs in Gurugram, Faridabad, Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, and Sonipat
- Scope of Action:
- File complaints/prosecution before the judicial magistrate
- Order site closures for non-compliance
- Impose and recover Environmental Compensation Charges
- Enforce measures under the GRAP Schedule (Graded Response Action Plan)
- Focus Areas:
- Implementation of dust mitigation measures
- Enforcement of C&D Waste Management Rules, 2016
- Compliance with directions issued by CPCB, State Pollution Control Boards, DPCC, and local authorities
⚖️ Unchanged Provisions:
All other clauses and directions under Direction No. 86 remain unchanged and continue to be in effect.
This amendment underscores CAQM’s commitment to stricter field-level enforcement to combat air pollution across Delhi-NCR and nearby urban regions. The decision is a crucial step in enhancing accountability and legal action at the local level for gross environmental violations.
For complete details, stakeholders may refer to the official CAQM directive or visit caqm.nic.in.