Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) holds crucial emergency meet in wake of deteriorating air quality of the Delhi-NCR region

What is the News?

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has convened a crucial emergency meeting in wake of deteriorating air quality of the Delhi-NCR region. During the meeting, it has asked States to be ready for implementing ‘Emergency Measures’ as listed under Graded Response Action Plan(GRAP).

What are the reasons identified by the commission for the adverse air quality scenario in Delhi-NCR region?

Paddy stubble burning

Vehicular and Industrial pollution

Post-Diwali pollution and dip in temperature 

Dust storms moving in from the South-Westerly directions of the Thar Desert brought in huge quantities of dust that further amplified the PM2.5 / PM10 levels.

What are the suggestions given by the commission?

Firstly, Control stubble burning, Reduce dust from construction and demolition activities, Check dust from roads and open areas and cut down on vehicular and industrial pollution.

Secondly, regular assessments should be conducted to be well aware of the visible impact of the efforts initiated on-ground towards the improvement of air quality in Delhi-NCR.

Thirdly, Citizen Charter / Advisory should be issued for the general public to suggest various steps that need to be taken during various stages/ categories of the GRAP Action Plan.

Fourthly, states should consider the closure of schools and have also advised government and private offices to switch over to work from home.

Source: This post is based on the article “Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) holds crucial emergency meet in wake of deteriorating air quality of the Delhi-NCR region” published by PIB on 15th November 2021.