CAQM Emphasizes Strict Enforcement of GRAP to Combat Air Pollution in Delhi

All relevant departments and agencies have been instructed to strictly adhere to the directions issued by the CAQM. The meeting also focused on strict discipline and measures to guard against unauthorized/ haphazard parking of private vehicles on metaled roads, markets, public spaces etc. leading to vehicular congestion and high levels of pollution, particularly in winters and called for strict action against violators including for violations of Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate regime.

New Rules for Water Pollution Cases

The rules provide that complaints can be filed electronically, by speed post, or in person. Adjudicating officers are required to initiate inquiries within 30 days of receiving a complaint. The entire inquiry process, including evidence gathering and decision-making, must be completed within six months.

Environment Protection (Manner of Holding Inquiry and Imposition of Penalty) Rules, 2024

The Central Pollution Board, State Pollution Control Boards, Pollution Control Committees, Commission for Air Quality Management and Integrated Regional Offices of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in their respective jurisdictions, through their authorized Officers, or any other persons, may file a complaint in Form-I through electronic means or speed post or by hand to the adjudicating officer regarding any contravention committed under sections 7, 8 , 9, 10 and 11 of the Act.

New Guidelines for E-Waste Processing Capacity Determination For Recyclers

The processing capacity of an e-waste recycling facility will be determined based on the capacity of the maximum hourly capacity of installed machinery and equipment, considering a maximum of 20 hours of operation per day. SPCBs/PCCs will grant CTOs specifying the annual processing capacity in terms of the weight of e-waste that the facility can handle. Standalone dismantling facilities can be allowed, but the recycler must take responsibility for the flow of materials and report it in their annual return.

India Unveils Updated Biodiversity Plan at COP 16

India unveiled its updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) at the 16th meeting of the Conference of Parties (COP 16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The document, released during a special event on October 30, 2024, outlines a roadmap for India’s biodiversity conservation efforts aligned with the global Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

Strict Enforcement of GRAP in Delhi-NCR to Combat Air Pollution

Over 7,000 Construction and Demolition (C&D) sites were inspected, leading to penalties and closures for non-compliance. Approximately 1,400 industries were inspected, and actions were taken against violators. Around 1,300 DG sets were inspected, and non-compliant units were penalized.

Complete Ban on Firecrackers in Delhi: DPCC Directive

Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) issued a significant directive to enforce a complete ban on the manufacturing, storage, sale, and bursting of all types of firecrackers in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi.