CPCB Guidelines to Improve Delhi Air Quality - Testbook

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has taken a significant step towards ameliorating the air quality in Delhi. It has issued directives to the state governments of Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to start taking necessary actions immediately.

• Leveraging its authority under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, the CPCB has enumerated a total of 42 'action points.' These steps are to be initiated by the above-mentioned governments to control pollution caused by vehicles, crop burning, industrial emissions, and construction activities.
• Several of these action plans need immediate implementation. For the remaining ones, the CPCB has set deadlines of 30 days, 60 days, or 90 days.

CPCB's 'Action Points':

• The states are required to initiate a widespread awareness campaign against pollution-causing vehicles,
• install weigh-in motion bridges at all entry points to Delhi,
• prohibit parking of vehicles in non-designated areas,
• prevent vehicles from carrying excess load,
• devise an action plan to tackle fuel adulteration,
• draft an action plan for public transport to operate on CNG mode,
• ensure roads are free from pot holes for smooth traffic flow,
• introduce an early warning system for traffic congestion on major routes and for route diversions,
• decongest pathways, and even consider implementing flexible or staggered timings to reduce road congestion.
• Make sure construction sites are covered,
• construction materials and waste that can generate dust should be managed only after sprinkling water on them,
• these materials and waste should also be transported only in closed carriages.
• The states have been given a 30-day deadline to take "strict action" against unauthorized brick kilns, and a 60-day timeline to ensure "strict action" against industrial units not adhering to pollution standards.
• Rigorous action against open burning of biomass/leaves/tyres,
• prohibit the use of coal in hotels, restaurants and put an end to the use of kerosene for cooking in Delhi.
• Establish a helpline for taking action against non-compliance.