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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