The State Governments of Punjab, National Capital Region (NCR) States, and the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) have coordinated to devise thorough action plans to tackle air pollution. These comprehensive strategies were developed based on a framework provided by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). In tandem with these initiatives, the World Health Organization (WHO) also unveiled its new Global Air Quality Guidelines.
The Framework of the Commission
The CAQM has outlined various components of the plan that the states must implement. The directions primarily focus on managing crop residue through both in-situ and ex-situ methods. The Ministry of Agriculture backs these approaches through the Crop Residue Management (CRM) Scheme. The framework also includes a prohibition on burning stubble or crop residue, plans to reduce paddy straw generation, and extensive monitoring and enforcement strategies. Lastly, it emphasizes the need for Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities to facilitate the plan’s execution.
Action Plans to Counter Air Pollution
One of the notable actions is standardizing the process of recording and monitoring fire counts due to stubble burning using a protocol developed by ISRO. In-situ crop residue management encompasses the application of the PUSA Bio-Decomposer technology across NCR States. Meanwhile, ex-situ crop residue management encourages the use of Paddy Straw Pellets/Briquettes for co-firing in Thermal Power Plants.
Dust Control Measures
For dust control, a specialized unit called “Dust Control and Management Cell” will be established. There will also be dedicated web portals for tracking construction and demolition activities, along with video fencing of projects. Several measures will be taken to manage dust from construction and demolition project activities, including the installation of anti-smog guns, employing dust-suppressants and water mist, ensuring materials are transported in covered vehicles, and setting up air quality monitoring sensors at project sites.
Industrial and Vehicular Pollution
The plan also aims to transition industries towards using Piped Natural Gas (PNG) or cleaner fuels. As part of efforts to curb vehicular pollution, the Commission has advised advocating for zero-emission and e-vehicles, thus promoting cleaner technologies in the transport sector. RFID systems have also been installed at 124 border entry points in Delhi to hasten toll collection and reduce traffic congestion and subsequent air pollution.
Monitoring Strategies
To provide continuous monitoring and maintain smooth traffic management, a dedicated taskforce will be established in each NCR state. This group will work on developing an “Intelligent Traffic Management System” (ITMS). Vehicles running on petrol/diesel and more than 15/10 years old will not be allowed to ply in the NCR region. This policy will be reviewed periodically for effectiveness.
State-wise action plans have been developed to control Biomass/Municipal Solid Waste Burning and fires in landfill sites. Lastly, a Decision Support System (DSS) will be put in place for air quality emergency response.