Context:
- The 128th meeting of the Enforcement Task Force (ETF) under the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) highlights ongoing efforts to tackle air pollution in NCR.
Key Highlights:
Institutional Framework
- Established under the CAQM Act, 2021.
- A statutory body responsible for air quality management in NCR and adjoining areas.
Mandate / Functions
- Ensure:
- Coordination among states (Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, UP)
- Monitoring and improvement of Air Quality Index (AQI)
- Focus on:
- Prevention and control of air pollution
- Research and identification of pollution sources
Powers
- Authority to:
- Restrict polluting activities
- Issue binding directions and guidelines
- Conduct inspections and investigations
- Orders are legally binding on all stakeholders.
Composition
- Chairperson:
- Government official of Secretary/Chief Secretary rank
- Tenure: 3 years or up to age 70
- Members include:
- Ex-officio members from NCR states
- Technical experts (CPCB, ISRO, NITI Aayog)
- NGO representatives
Significance
- Centralized authority improves policy coordination across states.
- Enhances accountability and enforcement mechanisms.
- Addresses transboundary air pollution issues.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- CAQM Act, 2021:
- Establishes statutory body for NCR air quality management.
- ETF (Enforcement Task Force):
- Ensures implementation of pollution control measures.
- AQI (Air Quality Index):
- Measures air pollution levels.
- States covered:
- Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh
Relevant Mains Points:
- Air Pollution Governance:
- Need for inter-state coordination mechanisms.
- Institutional Challenges:
- Enforcement gaps and compliance issues.
- Policy Effectiveness:
- Role of centralized authority vs federal structure.
- Environmental Health Impact:
- Air pollution as a major public health crisis.
Way Forward:
- Strengthen real-time monitoring and data sharing.
- Ensure strict enforcement of CAQM directives.
- Promote clean energy and sustainable practices.
- Enhance public awareness and participation.
UPSC Relevance:
- GS 3: Environment (Air Pollution, Environmental Governance)
- GS 2: Governance (Statutory Bodies, Federal Coordination)