Delhi-NCR Chokes: 411 Industrial Units Sealed Amid Severe Air Pollution Crisis

Delhi-NCR continues to face a severe air pollution crisis, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) frequently registering in the "very poor" and "dangerous" categories across the region. This persistent smog poses significant health risks to millions of residents. In response to the escalating emergency, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has initiated a major crackdown on non-compliant industrial units.

The DPCC has ordered the closure of 411 industrial units found operating without mandatory environmental consent and contributing to visible air and water pollution. This action stems from a large-scale joint inspection conducted by DPCC, the Revenue Department, and the Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation.

Over 2,600 industrial units were inspected across 28 notified industrial areas and 27 redevelopment zones. Of these, 232 units in notified areas and 179 in redevelopment zones were found violating pollution norms, leading to the closure orders issued on 21st December.

Delhi Environment and Forest Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa emphasised the governments commitment to public health, stating that strict action would be taken against all violators, with a clear focus on enforcing environmental standards rather than granting exemptions. Emergency measures under the Graded Response Action Plan remain in effect.