CAQM orders NCR industries to install PTZ cameras over fuel areas

Prelims pointers

• CAQM Act, 2021: followed the CAQM Ordinances of 2020 and 2021; the Commission sits in Delhi and covers NCR plus adjoining areas of Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
• The Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority, set up in 1998 under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, was dissolved by the CAQM Act.
• CAQM members include a technical member nominated by the Indian Space Research Organisation, one from CPCB, and a NITI Aayog representative; the Union Environment Minister chairs its selection committee.
• In a conflict, CAQM's orders prevail over those of the governments of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, CPCB, State boards and the Delhi committee.
• CAQM's mandate covers stubble burning: it may levy environmental compensation on farmers who burn stubble, but the Act's jail-and-fine clause does not apply to them.
• The Comptroller and Auditor General of India audits CAQM's accounts, and the audit report is laid before each House of Parliament.
• Air Act, 1981: 'air pollutant' includes noise. CPCB acts as the Central Board, and as the State Board for Union Territories.
• National Green Tribunal: set up under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010; it hears appeals against CAQM's orders, directions and actions.