CAQM and Air Pollution Control in the National Capital Region
Context
The Commission for Air Quality Management CAQM has issued show cause notices to six thermal power plants within 300 km of Delhi for non compliance with biomass co firing norms, aimed at reducing air pollution in the National Capital Region NCR.
Statutory Status
Mandate
. Statutory body for prevention and control of air pollution
. Focus on NCR and adjoining areas
Legal Nature
. Empowered to issue directions and penalties
. Ensures inter state coordination on air quality
Establishment and Legal Basis
Year of Establishment
. Established in 2021
Legal Instrument
. Constituted under the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas Ordinance 2021
. Replaced EPCA Environment Pollution Prevention and Control Authority
Headquarters
Location
. New Delhi
Composition
Key Members
. Chairperson
. Member Secretary of Joint Secretary rank acting as Chief Coordinating Officer
Expert and Other Members
. One full time Central Government member
. Three independent technical experts in air pollution
. Three members from non governmental organisations
Tenure
Duration
. Three years or up to 70 years of age, whichever is earlier
Jurisdiction and Coverage
Core Area
. National Capital Region NCR
Adjoining Areas
. Parts of Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh affecting NCR air quality
Functions
Coordination Role
. Coordination between Centre and State Governments
Planning and Implementation
. Air quality management strategies for NCR
. Action plans such as plantation drives and stubble burning control
Technical Role
. Identification and monitoring of air pollutants
. Research and capacity building with technical institutions
Enforcement Role
. Monitoring compliance with pollution control norms
. Enforcement of biomass co firing regulations
Biomass Co Firing and Air Quality
Environmental Benefits
. Reduction in coal use
. Lower particulate matter and emissions
Agricultural Impact
. Utilisation of crop residue
. Helps curb stubble burning
Conclusion
The enforcement action by CAQM against thermal power plants reflects its strengthened role in air pollution governance. Strict compliance with biomass co firing norms is essential for achieving long term improvement in NCR air quality and supports India’s broader clean energy and environmental goals.
Source : News On Air