CAQM reviews pollution measures as Delhi residents inhale ‘poor’ air

As AQI reached above 300 in certain areas of the city, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) held a meeting to review winter preparedness and implementation of air pollution control measures in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas.

The commission reviewed the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and statutory directions related to vehicular emissions, industrial emissions and stubble burning.

The direction, issued this month, which authorised Deputy Commissioners, District Collectors, District Magistrates and other officials in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan (NCR), Uttar Pradesh (NCR), and Delhi to file complaints before jurisdictional magistrates in cases of inaction by enforcement officials, was also ratified. The CAQM has decided to impose a strict ban on the entry of all commercial goods vehicles except BS-VI, CNG, LNG and EVs into Delhi from November 1, 2025.

“Only vehicles registered in Delhi will be exempt. BS-IV commercial goods vehicles will be allowed till October 31, 2026,” the commission said.

The commission also directed enforcement agencies to ensure strict border monitoring. The direction to restrict coercive action against owners of older vehicles will remain in abeyance, it said.

The commission also reviewed winter action plans of Delhi and NCR states. Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh were directed to monitor stubble burning, ensure use of CRM machines, strengthen supply chain for ex-situ applications and intensify enforcement and information campaigns.

Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan were instructed to increase vigilance in areas near NCR with active fire incidents.

States were directed to address complaints of open municipal solid waste and biomass burning within 24 hours.

The commission also noted the Supreme Court order of October 15, 2025, permitting sale of green firecrackers from October 18 to 20 at designated sites, with restrictions on sale from outside NCR and online platforms. The CPCB and State Pollution Control Boards will monitor air quality from October 14 to 25.