Air Pollution: CAQM Tightens Complaint Redressal System in NCR for Faster Action

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas has issued fresh directives to the NCR State Pollution Control Boards and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to improve the handling of air quality-related public complaints. In an announcement made today, CAQM emphasized the need for streamlined coordination between these bodies and enhanced response efforts.

Under the new system, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the NCR State Pollution Control Boards/DPCC must assign complaints received on their social media platforms to the relevant authorities. In a significant move, they must also tag CAQM. Furthermore, the concerned agency is expected to provide an update through a compliance report or a valid reason for non-compliance on the same platform while also tagging CAQM and CPCB. This mechanism allows CAQM to monitor the response time and effectiveness of the action taken, thus ensuring greater accountability.

To increase public awareness, the NCR Pollution Control Boards/DPCC have been directed to promote this complaint resolution system through various communication channels, including social media. This step is seen as crucial for empowering citizens to report air quality issues and ensuring that their complaints are addressed swiftly.

The directive further calls on the Chief Secretaries of NCR State Governments and the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) to sensitize all authorities responsible for implementing air pollution control measures. This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen enforcement, enhance monitoring, and ensure that air pollution concerns are addressed in a timely and efficient manner.