Public Submits Air Pollution Reforms To CAQM, Seeks AQI Cap Removal For Delhi-NCR

Public Recommendations  
Residents and activists argue that capping AQI at 500 masks the true severity of pollution. They want health-centric alerts that directly inform citizens about risks, along with real-time disclosure of emissions data from industries and waste-to-energy plants.  

Focus On Practical Measures  
Suggestions include congestion pricing, free public transport on high-pollution days, and dashboards to track National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) funds. These measures aim to reduce emissions while ensuring accountability in air quality management.  

CAQM’s Response  
The commission has acknowledged the submissions and confirmed that they will be reviewed for implementation. A new emission inventory and source apportionment study is planned, with 2026 as the base year, to better identify pollution sources in Delhi-NCR.  

Key Highlights  

• Public demands removal of AQI cap at 500  
• Health-based pollution alerts proposed  
• Sensor-based vehicle emission monitoring suggested  
• Calls for real-time industry emissions data  
• Congestion pricing and free transit on bad air days  

Conclusion  
The public’s push for reforms reflects growing frustration with Delhi-NCR’s worsening air quality. By demanding transparency, stronger monitoring, and health-focused measures, citizens are urging systemic changes that could reshape how pollution is managed in the region.  

Sources: Hindustan Times, Times of India, CAQM Reports