Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav recently chaired a high-level review of air pollution action plans for Rohtak, Manesar, Panipat and Karnal, stressing stricter industrial compliance, effective waste management and expansion of real-time air quality monitoring across NCR cities.

The Minister flagged concerns over high PM10 levels and persistent gaps in solid and construction and demolition waste management, particularly in industrial zones. Directions were issued to compile comprehensive datasets on industrial units with and without statutory consents, electricity connections and GST registrations to identify non-compliant operations, including gaps in pollution control systems.

Emphasis was placed on expanding Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations integrated with the SAMEER app, strengthening public transport with EV and CNG-based systems, mechanised road sweeping and dust control through plantation and pothole repairs. The Minister also called for smart traffic management plans and decentralised C&D waste facilities.

Action points will be monitored by the Commission for Air Quality Management, with the objective of achieving a 15–20 per cent reduction in AQI levels across NCR by 2026.