In a bid to tackle worsening air pollution in the capital, the Delhi government has formed a high-level panel headed by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. The committee includes cabinet ministers, senior government officials, and environmental experts, aiming to coordinate action, provide technical guidance, and enforce strict compliance with anti-pollution measures.
The panel’s responsibilities include monitoring air quality across the city, ensuring construction sites adhere to dust-control norms, and enforcing proper road maintenance. Authorities have directed that potholes be filled within 72 hours and damaged roads be repaired promptly. Construction sites are required to comply with dust-control measures within 48 hours, and unauthorized road-cutting or poor restoration will trigger legal action against responsible agencies.
Individuals, private companies, and government agencies failing to follow pollution-control or cleanliness norms may face fines and penalties. The move signals an aggressive approach by the Delhi government to hold all stakeholders accountable for environmental compliance.
In addition, over 2,254 polluting industries in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) have been instructed to install online continuous emission monitoring systems (OCEMS) by December 31. These systems will track real-time emissions, ensuring industries maintain permissible pollution levels. Non-compliance could result in strict action, including potential closure. The mandate applies to medium and large “red-category” industries, including those in food processing, textiles, metal processing, and other sectors.
The action comes amid Delhi’s air quality remaining in the “very poor” category, with public health at risk due to rising pollution levels. Authorities have emphasized the need for immediate and long-term measures to reduce particulate matter and other pollutants in the city’s air.
Experts say the panel’s success will depend on consistent enforcement, rapid corrective measures, and cooperation from industries and municipal agencies. By combining monitoring, strict penalties, and timely remediation, the government aims to improve air quality and protect residents from the harmful effects of pollution.
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