Key Measures Addressed in CAQM’s 26th Commission Meeting
In a significant gathering on December 22, 2025, the Chairman of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), Shri Rajesh Verma, led the 26th meeting of the full Commission. The meeting served as a platform to address critical agenda items related to air quality management and outline strategies for improving environmental conditions in the National Capital Region (NCR).
Important Reports and Plans Reviewed
The Commission adopted its Annual Report for 2024–25, alongside the Audited Annual Accounts and a separate audit report, which included actionable insights for future reference. Key among the discussions was the ratification of a revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) established on November 21, 2025. This plan has been modified to align with directives from the Hon’ble Supreme Court, emphasizing a structured approach where measures from higher levels of GRAP will incorporate actions from previous levels. A review of the GRAP implementation for the current season highlighted the successful execution of various initiatives aimed at mitigating air pollution, including traffic management and public transport enhancements.
New Committees and Amendments Proposed
In a move toward addressing vehicular pollution, the Commission ratified an Office Order from December 10, 2025, creating an Expert Committee. This committee will be chaired by Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwala from IIT Madras and tasked with exploring sustainable mobility strategies, assessing emissions and health impacts, and ensuring electric vehicle readiness.
During the meeting, amendments were discussed to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission vehicles, particularly by motor vehicle aggregators and e-commerce providers. Stakeholder feedback led to the proposal of transitional provisions permitting the induction of BS-VI petrol two-wheelers into existing fleets until December 31, 2026, while imposing restrictions on newer conventional internal combustion engine vehicles beginning January 1, 2026.
Effectiveness in Reducing Stubble Burning
The Commission also reviewed efforts against paddy stubble burning, noting an impressive 92% reduction in incidents due to enhanced monitoring. Directions were issued to the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh to prepare their State Action Plans for managing wheat residue burning in 2026.
Enforcement and Waste Management Discussions
A thorough review of enforcement actions showcased the status of industrial closures and resumptions by the Enforcement Task Force (ETF). Furthermore, the management of Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste emerged as a focal point, with the Commission stressing improved compliance with dust control measures and the establishment of additional waste processing facilities.
End-of-Life Vehicles and Judicial Compliance
Lastly, the Commission addressed the topic of End-of-Life (EoL) vehicles in light of recent Supreme Court orders. It was noted that while protections against coercive actions for BS-IV and later vehicles remain, actions against the more polluting BS-III vehicles have been lifted.
The meeting concluded with a call for heightened vigilance and coordinated enforcement actions across all sectors, especially vital during the winter season. All agencies involved in air pollution control pledged to regularly review their strategies to ensure effective implementation of the established measures.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
