IIT Delhi Study Surveys SO2 Levels Near Thermal Power Plants

The IIT Delhi study provides insights into the current ambient SO2 levels near thermal power plants in India and raises questions about the overall environmental and economic implications of widespread FGD adoption. The findings suggest a need for a balanced approach that considers both air quality improvement and climate change goals, while also ensuring energy security.

New Air And Water Pollution Consent Guidelines Released

These guidelines outline the procedures and criteria for obtaining, renewing, and potentially losing consent to establish or operate industrial plants that may cause air and water pollution. These guidelines aim to streamline the consent process while ensuring environmental protection.

Delhi Revokes Stage-III GRAP Restrictions Revoked As Air Quality Improves

Delhi’s AQI has steadily improved throughout the day, dropping from 281 at 2 PM to 278 at 4 PM. Rainfall due to a Western Disturbance (WD) on January 11-12, 2025, played a crucial role in improving air quality. Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predict another WD around January 14-15, 2025.

Delhi’s Air Quality Plummets, Commission Invokes Emergency Measures

This invocation comes after the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed the ‘severe’ mark of 350 on Thursday, January 9th, 2025. AQI has risen sharply from 297 on January 8th to 357 on January 9th. Stage-III GRAP actions target construction activities, vehicle restrictions, school operations, and government office timings. Citizens are urged to minimize travel, use public transport, and avoid open burning of waste.

Delhi Air Quality Shows Improvement, Stage III Graded Response Action Plan Revoked

Favorable weather conditions and recent rainfall have led to a significant improvement in Delhi’s AQI. Based on these improvements, CAQM has revoked Stage III actions under the revised GRAP for Delhi. However, Stage I and II actions remain in effect and will be strictly implemented by all concerned authorities in the NCR region.

Delhi’s Air Quality Improves: Stage-IV Restrictions Lifted

The air quality in Delhi has shown a significant improvement, prompting authorities to revoke the harshest restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This decision follows directions from the Supreme Court and aims to balance public health concerns with economic considerations.

India Streamlines Environmental Clearances to Boost Ease of Doing Business

To reduce redundancy and streamline approvals, the Central Government has amended Section 21 of the Air Act, 1981, and Section 25 of the Water Act, 1974. Notifications dated November 12, 2024 have been issued to exempt certain categories of industries from obtaining consents. Specifically, “white” category industries are completely exempted from the consent mechanism, while other categories are exempted from CTE if the project has already received environmental clearance under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986.