Commission for Air Quality Management-2024

Why in news?

Following multiple raps by the Supreme Court for inadequately addressing stubble burning, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), based in New Delhi has doubled the fines applicable to farmers caught indulging in it.

About the CAQM:

Establishment:

• The CAQM is a statutory body formed under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021.

Mandate:

• The CAQM's primary mandate is to coordinate efforts to monitor, regulate, and resolve issues related to air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas, which includes the states of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
• It aims to ensure better coordination between various agencies, conduct research, and identify solutions to air pollution problems, especially those related to particulate matter (PM 2.5) and other pollutants.

Responsibilities:

• Prevention and control of air pollution: This includes taking action to mitigate sources of pollution such as stubble burning, vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and construction dust.
• The Commission coordinates with local and state governments to ensure that air quality standards are maintained.

Powers:

• Restricting harmful activities: The CAQM has the power to restrict activities that negatively impact air quality, such as stubble burning and industrial emissions.
• Research and investigation: It is empowered to conduct research and investigations related to environmental pollution and its impact on air quality.
• Issuing binding directions: The Commission can issue directions, including inspections, and regulations that are binding on the concerned authorities and individuals. Non-compliance with its orders is subject to penalties.

Key Areas of Action:

• Directs agencies to control pollution sources.
• Issues guidelines to reduce air pollution.
• Coordinates air quality monitoring and management across the NCR and adjoining states.
• Takes action against violations related to air quality standards.
• Accountability: The CAQM is directly accountable to Parliament, ensuring that its actions are in line with national priorities for air quality management.

Composition of CAQM:

1. Chairperson:

• The CAQM is chaired by a senior government official, either a Secretary or Chief Secretary of the rank.
• The chairperson's term lasts for three years or until they reach the age of 70.

1. Members:

• Five ex-officio members: These are Chief Secretaries or Secretaries from the states of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, who deal with environmental protection.
• Three full-time technical members: Experts in air quality, environmental science, and technology.
• Three members from non-governmental organizations (NGOs): Representatives from environmental NGOs to ensure diverse perspectives.
• Technical members from:
• Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
• NITI Aayog: India’s premier think tank for national planning and development.

Key Functions and Powers:

• Restricting activities affecting air quality: The CAQM can impose restrictions on activities such as stubble burning, industrial operations, and construction activities that contribute to air pollution.
• Conducting research and preparing guidelines: It can issue scientific guidelines and prepare standards to help manage air pollution. This includes determining acceptable emission levels for industries and vehicles.
• Binding directions: The CAQM has the authority to issue mandatory directions that must be followed by governments and authorities in the NCR and adjoining areas. These directions include measures for pollution control, environmental regulations, and enforcement actions.

Importance of CAQM:

• The formation of the CAQM was a response to the increasing levels of air pollution in Delhi and surrounding regions, which often deteriorate during the winter months due to factors like stubble burning in neighboring states.
• The Commission plays a crucial role in shaping air quality management policy in the NCR and has the power to issue legally enforceable guidelines and actions to improve air quality.