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The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued a directive to the State Pollution Control Boards and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) aimed at improving the handling of air quality-related complaints from the public. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that air pollution issues are addressed swiftly and effectively through improved monitoring and accountability.

Streamlined Complaint Process

Under the new framework, complaints lodged by citizens via social media platforms will be streamlined. Upon receipt, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the respective State Pollution Control Boards will not only assign these complaints to the relevant implementing agencies but will also tag the CAQM in the process. This tagging system aims to maintain transparency, as agencies will be required to upload their compliance status or reasons for any non-compliance on social media, keeping the public informed.

“The goal is to enhance the response time and effectiveness of authorities dealing with air quality issues,” a CAQM spokesperson stated. By utilizing social media as a communication tool, the commission hopes to foster a more accountable environment where complaints are addressed promptly and the public can track responses.

Collaborative Efforts for Air Quality Management

In addition, the CAQM has called upon the Chief Secretaries of the National Capital Region (NCR) states and the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) to educate and sensitize various authorities responsible for air pollution control measures. This collaborative effort is designed to strengthen the regional response to air quality management and pollution abatement.

To ensure widespread awareness of this complaint mechanism, the NCR State Pollution Control Boards and DPCC are tasked with promoting the initiative through various channels, including social media. The CAQM emphasizes that community involvement is crucial in tackling the pressing issue of air pollution, and it is committed to facilitating a more responsive and efficient system for the public.

This directive comes at a critical time as the region faces ongoing air quality challenges, particularly with the onset of seasonal pollution. By enhancing the accountability of agencies tasked with monitoring air quality, the CAQM aims to provide timely resolutions to complaints and improve overall air quality management in the NCR.