The Commission for Air Quality Management has intensified enforcement measures across the National Capital Region, calling for stricter inspections, faster compliance and stronger inter agency coordination to curb air pollution, following a comprehensive review by its Enforcement Task Force.
The 127th meeting of the Enforcement Task Force reviewed inspection and enforcement activities carried out between February 19 and March 13, 2026, covering key pollution generating sectors including construction and demolition activities, industrial operations, road dust management and diesel generator set violations.
During the review period, the Task Force examined 79 inspection reports submitted by flying squads operating across the region. Based on these inspections, closure of 14 non compliant units has been proposed, while sealing of diesel generator sets has been recommended in 27 cases. In addition, show cause notices have been issued to 20 entities for violations of environmental norms.
The Task Force directed that all non complying entities must submit responses within five days of receiving preliminary inspection reports to ensure swift regulatory action. It also emphasised the need to strengthen inspection mechanisms by augmenting flying squad teams with greater participation from the Central Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Boards or the Delhi Pollution Control Committee. In cases where state representation is unavailable, a minimum of two officers will be deployed to maintain inspection integrity.
A detailed review of sector specific enforcement actions highlighted continued violations related to road dust management across multiple jurisdictions. Inspections conducted in areas under agencies such as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, New Delhi Municipal Council, Public Works Department, Delhi Development Authority, Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation, Delhi Cantonment Board and National Highways Authority of India revealed instances of non compliance. Corrective measures, including issuance of show cause notices to defaulting agencies, have been initiated.
The Commission also reviewed cumulative enforcement data up to March 17, 2026. A total of 26498 units, projects and entities have been inspected by flying squads since the enforcement drive began. Of these, 1743 closure directions have been issued for violations of environmental regulations.
Out of the closure cases, 1317 units have been allowed to resume operations after verification of compliance with prescribed norms. Meanwhile, 123 cases have been referred to the respective State Pollution Control Boards and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee for final adjudication. Decisions on resumption of operations for the remaining 303 entities are currently under examination in accordance with due process.
The Task Force stressed the importance of improving the quality and effectiveness of inspections, ensuring accountability among enforcement teams and expediting action against violators. It also called for enhanced coordination among central and state agencies to strengthen enforcement outcomes and ensure consistent compliance across sectors.
The Commission reiterated that sustained and robust enforcement is critical to achieving long term air quality improvements in the National Capital Region. It emphasised that strict adherence to environmental norms by industries, construction agencies and public bodies is essential to reduce pollution levels and safeguard public health.
The meeting concluded with a clear directive to intensify monitoring, streamline enforcement procedures and ensure that violations are addressed promptly to maintain momentum in the ongoing efforts to control air pollution in the region.
