The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has reviewed enforcement actions across the National Capital Region. During a 15-day period ending in early September 2026, inspectors found widespread violations in construction, industrial and power generation activities.
Numbers and Actions from Recent Inspections
Between 24 August and 7 September 2026, the CAQM’s Enforcement Task Force reported 150 inspections. These comprised 7 checks at construction and demolition sites, 98 at industrial facilities, and 45 involving diesel generator sets.
A special enforcement drive in Nuh, Haryana on 3 September 2026 saw eight flying squads inspect 35 premises with support from district administration, police and the Haryana State Pollution Control Board. Of these, 13 were found compliant, 7 were locked and await re-inspection.
Proposed enforcement actions include:
- Closure of 3 construction and demolition projects and 1 industrial unit
- Sealing of 25 diesel generator sets
- Issuance of compliance orders in 6 construction-related cases, 2 industrial cases and 3 generator-related cases
- Environmental compensation imposed in 2 industrial cases and 6 other cases
- Personal hearing ordered in 1 case
The CAQM also reviewed cumulative enforcement since operations began. Flying squads have inspected 28,547 units and projects across NCR. They have issued 1,829 closure directions, of which 1,479 have been lifted after entities demonstrated compliance. Another 224 entities remain under examination.
In the reporting period, 6 resumption orders were issued, comprising 1 industrial unit and 5 construction sites, split between Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
What This Means for You
If you work in construction, run an industrial facility or operate diesel generators in the NCR, expect stricter scrutiny of your compliance with air quality norms. The CAQM is stepping up inspections and applying penalties including fines, equipment sealing and project closure. Compliance verification has become faster, and the commission emphasised expedited action going forward. Industries and construction projects that meet standards will face no disruption, but those violating norms should expect enforcement action without delay.