The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) recently directed the closure of 16 industrial units across the National Capital Region after inspections revealed gross and persistent violations of environmental norms. The action is part of CAQM’s intensified enforcement drive to curb air pollution and ensure strict compliance with statutory directions.

Of the affected units, one is located in Uttar Pradesh (NCR), one in Rajasthan (NCR), while the remaining 14 operate in Haryana’s Sonipat district. The inspections identified serious lapses, including operation without mandatory Consent to Establish and Consent to Operate, non-installation or malfunctioning of air pollution control devices, use of unapproved fuels, operation during restricted GRAP periods, non-compliant diesel generator sets, and visible emissions from industrial processes.

CAQM stated that several units were functioning in blatant disregard of extant statutes and environmental directions. The Commission has ordered immediate closure of the defaulting units until full compliance is achieved and reiterated that strict enforcement, including closure and other penal actions as per law, will continue against violators.