Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)

Introduction

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) was established as a statutory body under the CAQM in National Capital Region (NCR) and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021. It aims to ensure coordinated and efficient management of air quality in the Delhi-NCR and surrounding regions.

 

Mandate

• Primary Focus:
  • Prevention, control, and resolution of issues surrounding air pollution.
  • Management of the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi-NCR and adjoining states.
• Scope of Operations:
  • Covering Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, due to their contribution to Delhi’s air quality challenges.
  • Coordination with these states and the Delhi government.

 

Powers of CAQM

1. Restrictive Authority:
   • Can restrict activities that adversely impact air quality.
2. Research and Guidelines:
   • Conducts research on environmental pollution and prepares codes and guidelines to prevent and control air pollution.
3. Inspection and Regulation:
   • Empowered to issue binding directions for inspections, regulations, or other measures to improve air quality.
4. Enforcement:
   • All directions/orders issued by the Commission are legally binding on individuals, officers, or authorities.

Accountability

• The Commission is directly accountable to Parliament.

 

Composition

1. Chairperson:
   • A senior government official (Secretary or Chief Secretary rank).
   • Tenure: Three years or until the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier.
2. Ex Officio Members:
   • Five members: Chief Secretaries or Secretaries responsible for environment protection in the states of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
3. Technical Members:
   • Three full-time technical members with expertise in environmental management.
4. Non-Governmental Representation:
   • Three members from NGOs involved in environmental protection.
5. Specialist Members:
   • Experts from CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog for technical and scientific advice.

 

Significance

The CAQM provides a centralized mechanism for tackling air pollution in Delhi-NCR, particularly concerning:

• Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana.
• Vehicular emissions and industrial pollution in NCR.
• Construction dust and seasonal factors contributing to poor air quality.

Its statutory authority and binding enforcement powers enhance its ability to take decisive and coordinated action to improve air quality.