The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has broadened its regulatory scope to focus on industries responsible for pollution located outside the National Capital Region (NCR). This strategy aims to address the regional contributors to air pollution effectively.
The CAQM was established in 2020 through an ordinance, which was later enacted by Parliament in 2021. It replaced the Environmental Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA), which had been set up by the Supreme Court in 1998. The Commission plays a crucial role in enhancing coordination, research, and resolution of air quality issues in the NCR and adjacent areas.
The primary objective of CAQM is to ensure better management of air quality and tackle environmental challenges in the NCR and surrounding regions. The Commission aims to identify issues, conduct research, and implement solutions that mitigate air pollution.
The CAQM comprises 27 members, including representatives from the central and state governments, along with technical experts. This diverse composition allows for a more comprehensive approach to tackling air quality issues.
Delhi often faces severe air quality deterioration, especially during winter months when toxic smog poses significant health risks. Regulatory efforts have previously focused mainly on the NCR, which consists of 24 districts across Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
In November 2025, the CAQM mandated states adjacent to Delhi to create time-bound action plans aimed at phasing out coal as an industrial fuel in non-NCR districts. This shift reflects a growing concern regarding coal-based pollution sources.
Coal-fired power plants are significant contributors to sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and particulate matter emissions, both of which deteriorate air quality. Within a 300-kilometer radius of Delhi, there are 11 thermal power plants with a total capacity of 13,575 MW. Numerous industries outside the NCR, including those in sectors like steel, cement, and textiles, still rely heavily on coal, pet coke, and furnace oil.
The CAQM has directed states like Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Punjab to develop action plans within three months to phase out coal usage in industries located outside the NCR. This marks a strategic shift from prior focuses on stubble burning and brick kilns to a broader scope of industrial pollution sources.
Under its mandate, the CAQM is authorized to regulate pollution sources in both the NCR and adjoining areas. The Commission is contemplating restrictions on the establishment of new coal-based thermal power plants within a 300-km radius of Delhi. Additionally, it is exploring a transition to gas-based power generation to help reduce regional air pollution.
Q1. What is the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)?
Answer: The CAQM is a regulatory body established to manage air quality issues in the National Capital Region and surrounding areas, focusing on pollution sources and environmental challenges.
Q2. Why has the CAQM expanded its focus beyond the NCR?
Answer: The expansion aims to address industrial pollution in non-NCR regions, particularly concerning coal usage, to improve overall air quality and public health.
Q3. What are the main sources of pollution targeted by CAQM?
Answer: CAQM targets various sources, including coal-fired power plants and industries that rely on coal, pet coke, and furnace oil for energy.
Q4. How is CAQM addressing coal-based pollution?
Answer: CAQM has mandated states to develop action plans to phase out coal use in industries outside the NCR, reflecting a proactive approach to reduce emissions.
Q5. What future measures is CAQM considering?
Answer: CAQM is considering restrictions on new coal power plants and exploring transitions to cleaner gas-based power generation to mitigate air pollution.
Question 1: What was the primary aim of establishing the CAQM?
A) To regulate the use of coal
B) To improve air quality in NCR and surrounding areas
C) To manage water pollution
D) To control industrial waste
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which body did the CAQM replace?
A) National Green Tribunal
B) Environmental Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority
C) Ministry of Environment
D) Central Pollution Control Board
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: How many members are there in the CAQM?
A) 20
B) 25
C) 27
D) 30
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What directive did CAQM issue in November 2025?
A) Ban on plastic use
B) Action plans to phase out coal in non-NCR industries
C) Increase in renewable energy usage
D) Restrictions on vehicular emissions
Correct Answer: B
Kutos : AI Assistant!
