The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has found 17 of 35 industrial units inspected during a special enforcement drive in Haryana to be non-compliant with prescribed pollution-control norms, highlighting significant gaps in adherence to environmental regulations.
The inspections were carried out as part of intensified efforts to identify industrial sources contributing to air pollution in the National Capital Region. Of the 35 units covered during the drive, 18 were found compliant while violations were detected at the remaining 17, putting the non-compliance rate at nearly 49 per cent.
Enforcement stepped up
The special drive forms part of the CAQM’s broader strategy to strengthen surveillance of industries and ensure compliance with directions aimed at reducing emissions across the NCR. Industrial units operating in the region are required to comply with prescribed emission standards and pollution-control measures, with authorities empowered to initiate action against those found violating the norms.
The findings assume significance as the commission and state pollution-control authorities intensify inspections ahead of the period when air quality across Delhi-NCR typically deteriorates. Industrial emissions, alongside vehicular pollution, construction activity, road dust and other sources, remain among the factors affecting air quality in the region.
Violators face action
The inspection exercise is expected to be followed by action against units found violating environmental requirements. Depending on the nature and severity of violations, enforcement measures can include directions for corrective action, environmental compensation and restrictions on operations.
CAQM has repeatedly emphasised stricter compliance by industries operating across NCR states, including Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Delhi. The commission has also been pushing industries towards cleaner fuels and tighter emission-control practices as part of its broader efforts to curb pollution.
The discovery of violations at 17 of the 35 units inspected indicates that enforcement remains a significant challenge despite measures introduced to improve industrial compliance across the region.