Recently, the Supreme Court questioned the effectiveness of the Commission for Air Quality Management’s (CAQM) interventions to curb pollution.
Issues Highlighted by Supreme Court
- Temporary Impact: The Court criticized CAQM’s directions, stating they have only a short-term effect on violators, comparing them to pollution, being “in the air.”
- Non-Compliance: The Bench pointed out the total non-compliance of provisions under the CAQM Act, 2021.
- Lack of Enforcement: The Court questioned the lack of strong action taken under the Act, urging the Commission to become more active in ensuring its directions lead to tangible results in reducing pollution.
- Stubble Burning: The court expressed concern over the ongoing issue of stubble-burning, especially with winter approaching, asking CAQM for a detailed status report by October 3, 2024.
- Previous Directives: Despite past directives to stop stubble-burning, especially in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Delhi, compliance has remained an issue.
- Commission’s Claims: CAQM claimed its interventions had improved air quality in Delhi-NCR since its establishment, but the Court sought more robust evidence of lasting change.
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About CAQM
It is a Statutory Body established under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021.
Mandate
- Coordination: Enhance collaboration among states to address air pollution issues.
- Research: Conduct research related to air quality management.
- Control Pollution: Focus on air pollution control in Delhi-NCR and adjoining states (Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan).
Powers of CAQM
- Activity Restriction: Can impose restrictions on activities affecting air quality.
- Research and Investigation: Conducts investigations and research on pollution.
- Guidelines and Codes: Develops guidelines and codes for air pollution prevention.
- Issuing Directions: Authority to issue binding directions for inspections and regulations.
- Enforcement: Orders are legally binding; non-compliance can lead to legal actions.
Structure
- Accountability: Directly accountable to Parliament.
- Chairperson: Senior government official (Secretary or Chief Secretary) with a tenure of 3 years or until 70 years of age.
- Ex-officio Members: Five representatives from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
- Technical Members: Three full-time members and experts from CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog.
- NGO Members: Three members from non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
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September 28, 2024
