Explainer: Why pollution monitoring failed in Gurugram-Faridabad

WHILE both Gurugram and Faridabad continue to grapple with poor air quality, industries contributing significantly to pollution are failing to comply with mandatory pollution-control measures. Despite repeated directives from pollution control authorities and several awareness efforts, pollution monitoring remains inadequate at over 200 industrial units across these NCR cities.What is the cause for concern?More than 75 per cent of industrial units in Gurugram and Faridabad have failed to instal mandatory air pollution monitoring systems, even after repeated instructions from pollution control authorities. Due to poor compliance, the deadline for installation has now been extended to January 31, 2026. The directive was issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in October 2025 and is being implemented through the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB). The highest number of defaulting units are located in Manesar (Gurugram) and NIT Faridabad.What were industries asked to install?Industries were directed to install Air Pollution Control Devices (APCDs) connected to Online Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS). These systems continuously measure industrial emissions, transmit real-time data directly to CPCB and State Pollution Control Board servers. The monitoring systems track key pollutants such as Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM), Sulphur Oxides (SOx) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx). These pollutants are among the most harmful to air quality and public health.Why is OCEMS important?OCEMS is designed to eliminate manual sample collection by inspection teams, enable real-time digital surveillance of industrial emissions and detect violations instantly through automated data transmission.Once installed, enforcement agencies can initiate action without visiting industrial sites for sample collection. Each OCEMS installation costs approximately Rs 4-6 lakh. Industries are required to procure these systems from CPCB-approved vendors empanelled by the National Productivity Council (NPC).Which industries are the most prominent defaulters?According to HSPCB officials, the most non-compliant and pollution-prone sectors include food processing units, metal industries and textile units. Most of these fall under the ‘red category’, which includes highly polluting industries. While official figures have not been made public, senior officials indicated that over 200 industrial units are currently under scrutiny for non-compliance.The HSPCB had earlier conducted sensitisation drives, issued prior notices and circulated CPCB guidelines on OCEMS certification and approved vendors. Despite these efforts, compliance levels remain poor.What action can be taken against defaulting units?As per CPCB directives issued on November 1 and November 10, 2025, industries that fail to register and instal OCEMS may face temporary suspension of operations and penal action under existing pollution control laws.

Explainer: Why pollution monitoring failed in Gurugram-Faridabad

Despite repeated directives, monitoring remains inadequate at over 200 industrial units

Tribune News Service

Explainer: Why pollution monitoring failed in Gurugram-Faridabad

Despite repeated directives, monitoring remains inadequate at over 200 industrial units

Tribune News Service

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