New Industrial Siting Guidelines Issued In Telangana
Minimum distances from rivers, lakes, and notified water bodies are specified for different industry categories based on pollution potential. Industries near scattered houses (less than 40 or population of 200) might require additional safeguards based on project specifics. Projects within 500 meters of a water body require a NOC from the Irrigation and Command Area Development (I&CAD) department to ensure no obstruction of natural drainage.
Rationalizing Parking Charges For Private Vehicles In NCR
The CAQM has urged Urban Local Bodies to disincentivize private vehicles by way of rationalizing the parking charges. This endeavor shall be completed and implemented expeditiously, but not later than 30.08.2024 and a compliance report must be submitted to the Commission.
Stage-III of GRAP Revoked In Delhi As Air Quality Improves
Taking into account the disruptive nature of restrictions under Stage-III of GRAP, impacting a large number of stakeholders and the public, and considering the significant improvement in Delhi’s average AQI, the Sub-Committee unanimously decided to revoke Stage-III of GRAP in the entire National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect.
Delhi Launches Emergency Measures As Delhi-NCR Air Quality Deteriorates Rapidly
Taking immediate action to prevent further deterioration, the Sub-Committee has decided to invoke Stage-III of the revised GRAP – ‘Severe’ Air Quality (Delhi’s AQI ranging between 401-450) in the entire NCR. This is in addition to the preventive/restrictive actions already in force under Stage-I and Stage-II of GRAP in the region.
GRAP Stage-III Revoked Following Significant Progress
The AQI of Delhi has been progressively on the rise, which is 55 points below the threshold for invoking GRAP Stage-III actions (Delhi AQI 401-450). The forecast by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) suggests a likelihood of sustained improvement in AQI, remaining in the Very Poor/Poor category in the next few days.
Goa SPCB Issues Directions On Installation of OEMS
The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has issued a circular specifying further directions for installation of On-Line Effluent Monitoring Systems (OEMS) and Emission Monitoring Systems. These installations should be certified by institutions such as the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA), Monitoring Certification Scheme (MCERTS) and Technical Inspection Association (TUV). This shall be in force till Indian certifications are established.
Delhi Enforces Stage-III of GRAP As Air Quality Plummets
Sub-Committee has decided to re-invoke all actions under Stage-III of GRAP. This is in addition to the restrictive measures already in force under Stage-I and Stage-II of GRAP across the National Capital Region (NCR). The Sub-Committee emphasizes the importance of collective efforts to mitigate the impact of deteriorating air quality and appeals to citizens to adopt cleaner commuting options, work from home where possible, and minimize activities contributing to pollution.
MoEFCC Introduces Environmental Protection Amendment for Brick Kilns
The introduction of zig-zag technology, vertical shafts, or the use of piped natural gas is expected to contribute to reduced air pollution and improved air quality in the specified regions. Stakeholders in the brick-making industry are urged to adhere to the stipulated timelines for conversion.
Air Quality Report for NCR Cities/Towns
The Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has published the Air Quality Report for NCR Cities/Towns. This report was generated for December 17, 2023 at 4 PM. The latest Air Quality Index (AQI) readings for various cities and towns have been released indicating a diverse range of air quality conditions.
Government Initiates Study to Assess Air Pollution’s Impact on Health
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has sanctioned projects aimed at assessing the impact of air pollution on human health in 20 selected cities across the country under the National Environmental Health Profile Study. The study is a comprehensive evaluation of environmental factors influencing public health, including air pollution.
