CAQM Proposes Tighter PM Emission Norms For Delhi-NCR Industries

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued a statutory direction proposing a uniform and stricter particulate matter (PM) emission limit for industries operating across Delhi-NCR.

The Commission has recommended a ceiling of 50 mg/Nm³ for identified industrial units.

Industrial stack emissions remain a major contributor to elevated PM concentrations in the region.

These emissions also trigger the formation of secondary particulates, which further deteriorate ambient air quality.

The Commission has therefore intensified regulatory intervention to address the issue.

Since its establishment, CAQM has introduced targeted corrective measures. It mandated a shift to cleaner fuels.

It prescribed emission standards for biomass-based and other fuel-fired boilers and furnaces. It also notified approved fuel lists through statutory directions.

The revised norm follows recommendations from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

The CPCB relied on a technical study conducted by Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur and inputs from its Technical Committee.

The assessment concluded that a 50 mg/Nm³ PM standard is technically feasible and environmentally imperative.

Uniform Standard Across NCR

The new limit will apply to 17 categories of highly polluting industries identified by CPCB. It will cover Red Category medium and large air-polluting industries, food and food processing units, textile units operating boilers or thermic fluid heaters, and metal industries using furnaces across Delhi-NCR.

However, the direction exempts units already subject to a stricter PM emission cap below 50 mg/Nm³ under existing consents or statutory provisions.

The Commission stated that the revised threshold will substantially curtail industrial emissions.

It will contribute to pollution abatement and improve air quality, particularly for residents living near industrial clusters.

The norms will take effect for large and medium industries from August 1. Remaining industrial units must comply from October 1.

CAQM has directed NCR state governments, the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, Pollution Control Boards of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee to ensure strict enforcement.

Authorities must adhere to compliance timelines and conduct intensive information, education and communication campaigns to sensitise stakeholders.

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