New Delhi, Nov 9 (Representative) The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) chaired a meeting on Saturday with key officials and departments of the national capital to review the progress and effectiveness of actions being implemented under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), particularly in air pollution hotspots. The meeting was attended by the Chief Secretary of Delhi, senior officials from key departments and agencies of the Government of the National Capital Territory (GNCT) of Delhi, including the Environment Department, Transport Department, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Traffic Police, Delhi Jal Board, and the Public Works Department (PWD), among others.
During the meeting, the commission directed the authorities to intensify actions to phase out the large fleet of highly polluting End-of-Life (EoL) vehicles (over 15 years for petrol vehicles and over 10 years for diesel vehicles) that are still reported to be plying in Delhi. Expressing concern about the slow pace of resolution and the growing backlog of pending complaints managed by the respective agencies, the commission emphasized that every violation case must be addressed promptly to ensure swift resolution. The Commission underscored the need for a more proactive approach to handling complaints, noting that delays in resolving issues hinder the effective implementation of air quality management measures. It was clearly stated that agencies must take immediate and decisive action to resolve pending cases and prevent further accumulation of unresolved complaints. “Timely resolution is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the enforcement process and achieving the broader objectives of air pollution control,” the commission said. The MCD was specifically instructed to comprehensively review the parking fee structure in public parking spaces, as directed by the Commission.
This directive mandates the rationalization/review of parking fees for private vehicles to encourage the use of public transportation. The meeting also emphasized the importance of strict discipline and measures to prevent unauthorized and haphazard parking of private vehicles on metaled roads, in markets, and in public spaces, which lead to vehicular congestion and increased pollution, particularly during winter. It called for strict action against violators, including for violations related to the Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate regime. Key actions reported to enforce the GRAP in Delhi include hotspot-specific action plans and measures in other identified priority areas, augmenting public transport and improving traffic management, preventing open burning of biomass/municipal solid waste (MSW) during winter, and increasing public awareness, among other initiatives. The meeting further emphasized the need for targeted actions in coordination with all relevant agencies at key hotspots and other priority areas to effectively tackle air pollution. A collaborative and focused approach was deemed essential to ensure the successful implementation of pollution control measures and to achieve meaningful improvements in air quality. The commission strongly reiterated that all relevant departments, authorities, and agencies are required to strictly implement its directions in both letter and spirit.