NCR air pollution enforcement intensified in September, with the Commission for Air Quality Management sealing 28 diesel generator sets, ordering the closure of four construction projects and one industrial unit, and imposing environmental compensation in 10 cases after inspections across the region.
The action was reviewed at the 140th meeting of the CAQM Enforcement Task Force, which examined enforcement undertaken by the commission’s flying squads. The teams inspected industrial units, construction sites and diesel generator installations at 197 locations during the month and found serious violations in 85 cases.
The inspections covered activities that can contribute to local emissions, including industrial operations, construction work and the use of diesel generator sets. Following the findings, CAQM directed the closure of four construction projects and one industrial unit. The commission also sealed 28 DG sets and imposed heavy environmental compensation in 10 cases.
Special inspection drives in Loni and Hapur uncovered wider compliance failures. In Loni, all 21 industrial units inspected were found operating without pollution-control equipment and chimneys, according to the report. The units were also described as operating illegally. Evidence of covert operations was found at some older factories that had previously been sealed.
The findings point to an enforcement challenge beyond identifying violations: ensuring that closure and sealing orders remain effective after action is taken. The reported operation of previously sealed factories suggests that compliance monitoring must continue after an initial order, particularly in industrial areas where unauthorised activity can resume away from regular oversight.
CAQM data cited in the report shows that 28,744 units have been inspected across the National Capital Region so far. Of these, directions to close were issued against 1,831 units for violations. After corrective measures, 1,488 units were permitted to resume operations.
The figures indicate that enforcement has combined punitive action with conditional reopening. Units that address identified shortcomings may return to operation, while those continuing to violate environmental rules remain subject to closure directions or other action. The report does not provide a district-wise breakdown of the inspections, the amount of environmental compensation imposed, or the specific timelines given to the affected units for compliance.
The latest action comes as agencies prepare for closer monitoring of pollution sources across the NCR. CAQM has instructed the relevant authorities to strengthen surveillance in the coming days to prevent activities that could worsen air quality. The next stage will involve continued inspections and follow-up enforcement against units that fail to comply with the commission’s directions.