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Cse In News

The clean air gap: What India knows it needs vs what it’s actually doing

Despite India’s claims of progress in reducing air pollution through the National Clean Air Programme, the country is far behind targets and even ranked among 10 most polluted nations last year. But this is a problem compounded by many unimplemented recommendations – made by government committees, non-government organisations, and research institutions over the years. For example, a report by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment, Forests and Climate change had in 2023 recommended the Centre to revisit its monitoring framework for NCAP. It had highlighted the need for qualitative apart from quantitative data, and the inclusion of public experience and social audit as parameters. But those parameters are yet to be revised. Newslaundry audited several such recommendations, most of them made after 2022, and found that many are yet to be implemented. #1: Air quality standards status quo In 2022, CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research, under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Science and Technology, had suggested a stringent revision of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. But they remain unchanged since 2009 and are much more lenient as compared to the WHO air quality standards which were revised in 2021 – for example, the PM2.5 standard under NAAQS is 40 µg/m3 while the WHO wants it limited to 5µg/m³. The same paper also recommended expanding the scope of the monitoring stations in rural areas. However, the Central Pollution Control Board’s website only shows a rural network of 26 stations in 26 villages as of November 2024. The number stood at 26 even in 2020, as per a response to a Lok Sabha query, suggesting a slow pace of expansion. Sensor ambient air quality monitors are absent. They were recommended in a 2022 report by IIT Delhi’s Centre for Atmospheric Sciences and Centre of Excellence for Research on Clean Air, and in 2023 by private thinktank Centre for Science and Environment Analysis. Between November 2020 and May 2021, a total of 40 SAAQMs, manufactured by four Indian companies, were installed alongside the existing continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations under a pilot project in Maharashtra. This project and SAAQMs were rejected in 2023. Last year, a report by IIT Delhi’s TRIP-Centre had pointed out that most cities lacked the minimum recommended number of monitoring stations. Of 562 CAAQM stations across the country as per the CPCB website, only 473 are fully operational, according to the Central Control Room for Air Quality Management. And 186 cities have just one monitoring station each to themselves. In 2019, the Fifteenth Financial Commission had recommended monitoring aerosol optical depth – a measure of aerosols such as smoke and sea salt within a column of air. In 2023, Union Environment Minister Ashwini Kumar Chaubey told the Lok Sabha that the AOD data cannot be used “for regulatory purposes”.

BMC to impose garbage tax soon

MUMBAI: Mumbai’s residents may have to pay a ‘user fee’ on solid waste management – a garbage tax – to fund the massive process of collecting, transporting and processing the city’s trash. The fee proposed to be collected – ₹687 crore a year from residential properties alone – would help the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) enhance its waste-management systems, invest in modern technology and improve overall service delivery. “The BMC had sought legal opinion on introducing the user fee. Having received the go-ahead for this, we will begin stakeholder consultations – calling for suggestions and objections – in a few days,” said a senior official with the BMC’s solid waste management department. Introducing the user fee would mean revising Mumbai’s solid waste management bye-laws, which haven’t been amended in almost 20 years. After 2006, when the BMC rolled out its Greater Mumbai Cleanliness and Sanitation Bye-laws, there has been an evolution in the solid waste management laws governing the country. The Centre had issued the overarching Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, followed by the Maharashtra government’s Solid Waste Management Bye-laws, 2019, under the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act, 1949, for urban areas of the state. The 1949 Act applies to all municipal corporations for all larger urban areas – except the BMC, which is governed by the Greater Mumbai Cleanliness and Sanitation Bye-laws, 2006, under the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888. In addition, there have been a host of laws dealing with specific kinds of waste – plastic, biomedical, construction and demolition waste, and e-waste. The upcoming draft bye-laws will incorporate all the above into a comprehensive set of rules for Mumbai, said the senior civic official. According to the new draft rules, the BMC proposes to charge the following monthly fees for residential units: ₹100 for a unit up to 50 sq m; ₹500 for areas up to 300 sq m; and ₹1,000 for those over 300 sq m. Commercial establishments, clinics, cottage industries and event halls, will be charged at different rates, starting with a minimum ₹500. The senior civic official said the new user fee is being imposed due to the city’s increasing population and the growing volume of solid waste Mumbai produces – 7,500 tonnes a day, at present. The city’s per capita expenditure for SWM is ₹3,141, far higher than other cities – Pune ₹1,724, Kolkata ₹1,584 and Bengaluru ₹1,335. “These other cities already charge a fee for SWM, in line with the central act,” the official said The new draft bye-laws will also raise the penalties for offences such as littering, spitting, urinating, defecating and bathing in public, delivering unsegregated waste, delivering segregated waste not as per specifications, unauthorised dumping of construction and demolition waste, hawking without a waste bin, not keeping a house gully clean, etc. With the more stringent rules focusing on individual responsibility, complaint redressal mechanisms are also being introduced; any aggrieved person will have the right to complain before the ward’s assistant commissioner within 30 days. After the stakeholder hearings and the incorporation of objections and suggestions, if needed, the new draft bye-laws will be tabled in the state legislative assembly for an amendment to the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888. “It is surprising that Mumbai does not have a SWM user fee yet,” remarked Atin Biswas, programme director, Solid Waste Management and Circular Economy, at the Delhi-based Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). “Collecting waste from households’ doorstep is a service offered by the municipality, which then goes on to process it at no cheap cost. There is no reason for this to be free and the civic body is completely within their legal rights to impose a fee, although the rates can be questioned. In fact, Mumbai is lagging as the SWM Rules, 2016, mandated urban bodies to incorporate the Act within a year.”.

GRAP-II curbs lifted as air quality stays moderate for 6 days

New Delhi: Commission for Air Quality Management has revoked Stage II of Graded Response Action Plan, which included restrictions on the entry of interstate buses from NCR running on non-cleaner fuel to Delhi, enhanced parking fees, and restricted use of diesel-generator sets. GRAP's Stage II was in force in Delhi-NCR since Oct 22. However, it was lifted with immediate effect on Monday as Delhi's air quality stayed moderate for the past six days. The GRAP system categorises air quality into four stages: Stage I (poor: AQI 201–300), Stage II (very poor: AQI 301–400), Stage III (severe: AQI 401–450), and Stage IV (severe plus: AQI above 450). "Owing to improvement in mixing height and ventilation coefficient and much favourable meteorological conditions for the dispersion of pollutants, the air quality index of Delhi has since shown a significant improvement. The AQI was recorded as 186 for Feb 24, which is 114 points below the 300 mark to implement Stage II as per the extant directives of the Supreme Court," said CAQM. The commission added that the forecasts by IMD and IITM indicate the average air quality of Delhi to stay in the ‘moderate' or ‘lower end of the poor category' in the coming days. The measures that have been revoked include the restriction on inter-state buses from NCR states, other than EVs/CNG/BS-VI diesel, to enter Delhi. Other measures include restricted use of DG sets, enhanced vehicle parking fees to discourage private transport, and augmenting public transport services through CNG/electric buses and metro services by inducting additional fleet and increasing the frequency of service. A New Delhi Municipal Council official said, "The parking fee will be brought down to normal rates as the GRAP Stage II has been lifted. The parking rates were increased in Oct last year when a public notice was issued informing the public about increasing parking fees." CAQM modified Stage II on Dec 13 last year. Following the Supreme Court orders, some measures, which were earlier part of Stage III, were included in Stage II. Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director, research and advocacy, Centre for Science and Environment, said, "Air pollution is expected to come down now with the dissipation of the adverse meteorological conditions of winter. But this is the time to build the momentum for round-the-year multi-sector action to ensure that the next winter can avoid emergency situations and health-threatening smog." Currently, GRAP's Stage I, which has no restrictive actions but focuses on stringent implementation of guidelines, is in force since Oct 15. Meanwhile, the maximum temperature in Delhi was 27.5 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal, on Monday as against 26.1 degrees Celsius a day earlier. The minimum temperature was 10.7 degrees Celsius, one degree below normal. The day temperature is predicted to stay in the range of 27-29 degrees Celsius on Tuesday and 28-30 degrees Celsius on Wednesday. "However, the city may receive very light to light rain on Feb 27 and 28 under the influence of a western disturbance. Rain is likely to be accompanied by a thunderstorm or lightning," said an IMD official.

Air quality is not great so learn to live with it

Everyone loves a breath of fresh air. Unfortunately, too often our air is anything but fresh. While air quality varies dramatically, 99 percent of the global population is exposed to air at some point that doesn't meet the strict standards set by the World Health Organization, the agency says. Polluted air, laden noxious gases or tiny, invisible particles that burrow into human bodies, kills seven million people prematurely every year, it says. The Standard Channel More>> And for the millions living in some of the world's smoggiest cities - New Delhi, Dhaka, Bangkok and Jakarta - bad air might seem inescapable. But there are things people can do, starting with understanding that the air isn't only polluted when it looks smoggy, said Tanushree Ganguly of the Energy Policy Institute of Chicago. "Blue skies can't guarantee you clean air," she said. What are the most dangerous kinds of air pollutants and their sources? Pollutants often come from people burning things: fuels such as coal, natural gas, diesel and gasoline for electricity and transportation; crops or trees for agricultural purposes or as a result of wildfires. Fine, inhalable particles, known as particulate matter, are among the most dangerous. The tiniest - PM 2.5 that are less than 2.5 microns in diameter - can get deep into lungs and are mostly created by burning fuels. PM 10 particles are linked to agriculture, roadways, mining or the wind blowing eroded dust. Other dangerous pollutants include gases like nitrogen or sulfur dioxide, also produced from burning fuels, said Center for Science and Environment expert Anumita Roychowdhury in New Delhi. The sources and intensity of pollution varies. Old motorbikes and industrial boilers are major contributors to bad air in Jakarta while burning of agricultural waste is a main reason for air pollution spikes in Thailand and India. Brick kilns that burn coal add to pollution in Dhaka. What health problems can air pollution cause? Air pollution is the second-largest risk factor for early death globally, behind high blood pressure, according to a recent report by the Health Effects Institute. Short-term exposure can trigger asthma attacks and increase heart attack and stroke risks, especially in the elderly or people with medical problems. Long-term exposure can cause serious problems that can lead to death, including heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung infections. A recent analysis by the UN children's agency found that more than 500 million children in east Asia and Pacific countries breathe unhealthy air and the pollution is linked to the deaths of 100 children under five every day. June Kunugi, Unicef regional director for east Asia, said the polluted air compromises growth, harms lungs and impacts their cognitive abilities. "Every breath matters, but for too many children every breath can bring harm," she said. What's the best way to tell if air is safe? Over 6,000 cities in 117 countries now monitor air quality, and many mobile apps include information on it. But trying to gauge how bad the air is by looking at these numbers can be confusing. To help people understand air quality levels more easily, many countries have adopted an index - a numerical scale where larger numbers mean worse air. They are also often assigned colors to show whether the air is clean or not. Countries have different standards. India's daily PM 2.5 limit is more than 1.5-times higher than Thailand's and four-times higher than WHO standards. This means that they calculate AQIs differently and the numbers aren't comparable with each other. This is also why sometimes AQI scores by private firms using stricter standards may be different from those calculated by countries. What are the best ways to protect yourself from air pollution? The goal, of course, is to limit exposure when air quality is bad, by staying inside or wearing a mask. Staying inside isn't always possible, especially for people who must live or work outside, said World Resources Institute researcher Danny Djarum. Pakaphol Asavakomolnant, an office worker in Bangkok, wears a mask every day and avoids riding a motorcycle to work. "I get a sore throat when I go to work and forget to wear a mask," he said. People also need to be aware of indoor air pollution, often caused by common household activities like cooking or even burning an incense stick. What are the benefits - and limitations - of air purifiers? Air purifiers can help reduce indoor pollution, but they have their limitations. They work by pulling air from a room, pushing it through a filter that traps pollutants before circulating it back. But they're most effective when used in small spaces and when people are nearby. They can only clean a certain amount of air, said Rajasekhar Balasubramanian at the National University of Singapore. "If we have a tiny air purifier in a large room it won't be effective," he said. They are also too expensive for people in many developing countries. "The majority of people who are affected by air pollution can't really afford air purifiers," said Djarum.

BMC's Garbage Tax: Mumbaikars Have To Pay For Waste Collection; Check The Fees Inside

Mumbai's residents may soon have to pay a new 'user fee' on solid waste management, often referred to as a garbage tax. This fee aims to fund the extensive processes of collecting, transporting, and processing the city's waste. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) proposes to collect Rs 687 crore a year from residential properties to improve waste management systems, invest in modern technology, and enhance overall service delivery, according to a Hindustan Times (HT) report. A senior BMC official from the solid waste management department stated, "The BMC had sought legal opinion on introducing the user fee. Having received the go-ahead, we will begin consultations with stakeholders in a few days, inviting suggestions and objections." If approved, this user fee would require revising Mumbai's solid waste management bylaws, which have not been updated in nearly 20 years. Since the introduction of the Greater Mumbai Cleanliness and Sanitation Bye-laws in 2006, solid waste management laws in India have evolved significantly. The Centre established the Solid Waste Management Rules in 2016, followed by the Maharashtra government's bye-laws in 2019, under the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act of 1949. Notably, the BMC is governed by its own by-laws under the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act of 1888. The proposed draft bylaws will create a comprehensive set of rules for Mumbai, addressing various waste types, including plastic, biomedical, construction and demolition waste, and e-waste. Fee Structure According to the new draft rules, the BMC suggests the following monthly fees for residential units: Rs 100 for units up to 50 square metres, Rs 500 for areas up to 300 square metres, and Rs 1,000 for those over 300 square metres. Commercial establishments, clinics, cottage industries, and event halls will face different charges, starting at a minimum of Rs 500. As per the HT report, the senior official explained that the user fee is necessary due to Mumbai's increasing population and the rising volume of solid waste produced, currently at 7,500 tonnes a day. The city's per capita expenditure for solid waste management is Rs 3,141, which is significantly higher than other cities like Pune (Rs 1,724), Kolkata (Rs 1,584), and Bengaluru (Rs 1,335). "These cities already charge a fee for solid waste management, as per the central act," the official noted. The new draft bylaws will also increase penalties for offences such as littering, spitting, public urination, and unauthorised dumping of waste. Stricter rules will emphasize individual responsibility and a complaint redressal system will be established, allowing residents to file complaints with the ward's assistant commissioner within 30 days. Following stakeholder hearings and potential amendments based on feedback, the new draft bylaws will be presented to the state legislative assembly for an amendment to the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act of 1888. Atin Biswas, programme director for Solid Waste Management and Circular Economy at the Centre for Science and Environment in Delhi, expressed surprise that Mumbai does not already have a solid waste management user fee. According to the same report, he stated, "Collecting waste from households is a service provided by the municipality, which incurs significant costs in processing it. There is no reason for this service to be free, and the civic body is within its rights to impose a fee, though the rates may be debated. Mumbai is lagging behind, as the SWM Rules of 2016 mandated urban bodies to adopt these changes within a year."

BMC Introduces Garbage Fee Amid Growing Waste Challenges

Mumbai’s Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to introduce a garbage tax in a bid to streamline and enhance the city’s waste management infrastructure. The proposed user fee, set to generate ₹687 crore annually from residential properties alone, aims to address the increasing volume of waste generated by the city’s ever-growing population. The funds will be directed towards improving waste collection, transportation, and processing systems, while also modernising the technology and service delivery mechanisms. The BMC’s proposal follows a significant revision of Mumbai’s solid waste management (SWM) laws, which have remained largely unchanged since 2006. With the city currently producing 7,500 tonnes of waste daily, the need for a comprehensive and financially sustainable waste management system has never been more urgent. The planned fee structure outlines monthly charges based on the size of the residential property, ranging from ₹100 for units under 50 square meters to ₹1,000 for properties exceeding 300 square meters. Commercial establishments and other institutions will face different charges starting at ₹500 per month. The introduction of this user fee is seen as a response to the growing strain on Mumbai’s SWM system, which is already one of the most expensive in the country. At ₹3,141 per capita, Mumbai’s waste management costs far exceed those of other major cities like Pune, Kolkata, and Bengaluru, where similar fees are already in place. The BMC’s new draft bye-laws, which aim to incorporate national and state-level regulations, will also increase penalties for offences such as littering, improper waste segregation, and unauthorised dumping. While the BMC’s decision has been met with mixed reactions, experts argue that the move is necessary to ensure the financial sustainability of waste management services. Atin Biswas, Programme Director at the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), notes that many urban centres across the country already charge for waste services, in line with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. “There is no reason for waste collection to be free of charge, and the civic body is well within its legal rights to impose a fee,” he said. Despite this, concerns have been raised about the affordability of the proposed fee, especially for low-income households. In addition, the BMC is preparing to introduce stricter penalties for non-compliance with the city’s waste management rules, including higher fines for unsegregated waste and public sanitation violations. With the aim of further reinforcing individual responsibility, new complaint redressal mechanisms will be put in place to ensure accountability. Stakeholder consultations are underway, and once feedback has been incorporated, the new rules will be tabled in the state legislature for approval. However, given Mumbai’s escalating waste management challenges, the implementation of this garbage tax seems increasingly inevitable as the city looks to secure a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Green Guardians: The Women Leading India’s Environmental Revolution

Abstract This chapter delves into the pivotal role of women in India’s environmental movement, focusing on the exemplary contributions of Sumaira Abdulali, Kinkri Devi, Mamta Soni, Vandana Shiva, and Sunita Narain. These women have spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives in environmental protection, sustainable agriculture, and policy advocacy, shaping the narrative of India’s environmental consciousness. Sumaira Abdulali’s advocacy against illegal sand mining has raised awareness about coastal environmental degradation. Kinkri Devi’s legal battle against illegal mining in Himachal Pradesh has underscored the vital role of local communities in conservation efforts. Mamta Soni’s promotion of organic farming has not only empowered local farmers, particularly women, but also fostered sustainable agricultural practices. Vandana Shiva’s pioneering work on seed sovereignty and sustainable agriculture has challenged industrial agricultural norms and advocated for the preservation of indigenous seed varieties. Sunita Narain’s leadership at the Centre for Science and Environment has catalyzed significant policy reforms in air and water pollution, waste management, and sustainable development. These women’s remarkable efforts have not only reshaped environmental policies in India but also inspired a global environmental movement. Their contributions highlight the crucial role of women in driving environmental conservation and sustainability. As environmental challenges persist, the impact of these women continues to serve as a beacon of hope, illustrating the transformative power of women in leading India’s environmental revolution.

Chennai’s waterbodies marred by waste disposal

Chennai’s water bodies, including lakes and canals, and their banks continue to be face open dumping. A conservancy worker with Urbaser Sumeet, said, “The canal behind ESI hospital in Ashok Nagar is cleaned frequently. But people continue to throw waste around it. Sometimes, when the motorists throw the waste, it hits us and our uniforms are soiled. If even 75% of source segregation in done at the ward level, this can be reduced drastically.” The issue persists even in core areas like Kotturpuram near the bridge close to the Adyar River, Virugambakkam Canal, Kodungaiyur Lake, and in canals of Saidapet, he says. M. Radhakrishnan of Arappor Iyakkam said lack of awareness of segregation and unchecked bulk waste from offices, restaurants, industries, and gated communities contribute to the issue. He urged inspections at meat shops and markets like M.G.R Nagar Market, where unsegregated waste is dumped by vendors near a canal. Bins near Alapakkam and Ramapuram lakes lead to waste falling into water bodies. Waste in stormwater drains clogs canals, especially during rains, he said and suggested piloting solid waste management in one ward and replicating Kumbakonam municipality’s model, recognised by NITI Aayog and the Centre for Science and Environment (CSC). Vamsi Shankar Kapilavai, senior researcher at Citizen consumer and civic Action Group, said most of the waste is single-use plastic items and the harmful effects of these are known for all now. To plug usage, the factories manufacturing these items must be closed as no amount of monitoring can stop people from easily getting rid of plastic, he said. S.Mohan, President of Environment Awareness and Protection Association said the Chennai Corporation should have a micro-level plan for recycling and composting in every area. “When the Corporation sets an example by setting up a dumpyard close to a water body, people would follow suit. The unauthorised vegetable vendors occupying the bunds of the Pallikaranai marshland indulge in open dumping and open defecation close to the water body. They must be shifted to a market. The freshwater marshland and all waterways leading to it must be monitored to avoid such incidents as this problem will endanger the life of the rare species,” he said. D.Neelakannan, president of the Federation of Madhavaram Residents’ Welfare Associations, said the officials do not monitor the areas well. Compound walls were only recently added to the Puzhal Lake and Retteri Lake. “Fish market vendors close by dump the waste into the Retteri Lake directly often. An official with a team can keep an eye on the water bodies and canals,” he suggested. A resident in Saidapet noted that the Adyar river bank close to the Madras Boat Club is clean while the banks near a Chennai Metro Water park in Ward 122 are ridden with household garbage and garden waste. This is due to a lack of monitoring, he added. Wall against dumping According to Mayor R. Priya, “It is the Chennai Corporation’s duty to clean the city, but it is the citizen’s responsibility to refrain from dumping in open areas. Even furniture and bathroom utilities were retrieved from canals while desilting.” The Mayor stated that imposing fines is also tricky since people discard waste from higher floors which is tough to spot and impose penalties. “GCC is planning to raise walls and use a fencing closure in resident-heavy spots such as Virugambakkam canal, Otteri Nullah and internal canals of these water bodies. But they cannot also be completely closed as desilting will be tough. Corporation has identified canals close to residential areas where these infra need to be constructed and the file submitted by the Storm Water Drains Department is under processing for implementation after feasibility is checked,” she said.

प्रदूषण पर पर्दा न डालें, सही जानकारी दें... एक्सपर्ट्स ने बताई दिल्ली पल्यूशन की पूरी कहानी

2017 में GRAP (ग्रेडेड रिस्पॉन्स एक्शन प्लान) लागू होने के साथ उम्मीद दिखी थी कि अब दिल्ली एनसीआर में प्रदूषण कम करने के लिए ठोस कदम उठाए जाएंगे। दिल्ली एनसीआर की सरकारों के बीच एक आयोग (CAQM) के बनने से तालमेल बढ़ेगा। एक्सपर्ट्स के अनुसार करीब आठ साल बाद भी प्रदूषण के नाम पर पाबंदियों और पड़ोसी राज्यों पर आरोप प्रत्यारोप अधिक देखने को मिल रहे हैं। हालांकि कई चीजों पर काम भी हुआ है और उसका असर भी देखने को मिला है। पंजाब व हरियाणा में पराली जलाने के मामले काफी कम हुए हैं। इलेक्ट्रिक बसें दिल्ली में बढ़ी हैं, डीजल बसों की दिल्ली में एंट्री कम हुई है। इसके बावजूद दिल्ली एनसीआर में प्रदूषण के खिलाफ मुहिम का असर उतना नहीं है जितना होना चाहिए। मंजिल अब भी काफी दूर नजर आ रही है। पीएम 10 की बजाय पीएम 2.5 पर हो फोकस NCAP से तहत मिलने वाले बजट को सही दिशा में और सही तरीके से खर्च करना जरूरी है। सीएसई (सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरमेंट) की रिपोर्ट के अनुसार दिल्ली में NCAP (नैशनल क्लीन एयर प्रोग्राम) के तहत 2019-24 के दौरान मिले कुल बजट का महज 37 प्रतिशत ही खर्च किया गया। सीएसई की एग्जीक्यूटिव डायरेक्टर अनुमिता रायचौधरी के अनुसार NCAP में पीएम 10 और पीएम 2.5 दोनों के लक्ष्य तय हैं। इसके बावजूद अधिक फोकस पीएम 10 पर किया जा रहा है। जबकि स्वास्थ्य पर सबसे अधिक असर पीएम 2.5 डाल रहा है।

Talking Shop: Choking On Its Legacy

The National Capital of Delhi has a new Government, its people having reposed flickering hope and faith in fresh eyes and a cleaner approach. The hope carries a massive burden of responsibility for the new lot at the helm, that of living up to their promise of making the city a better place. ‘Flickering’ is not trite or being used lightly, it is a desperate optimism expressed by people living in despair. This quail has been catalysed by a succession of political dispensations that have let the people of the city down. Delhi was enticing enough for the Mughals and British to understand its cultural, strategic and historical opulence, and for those who settled after India achieved independence. The former magnanimity that this city boasts, though, is what kindled its ruination. It has been repeatedly exploited by invaders and power-seekers. Milked and browbeaten by those who came for business, but ended up ruling. Manipulated and misused by many a political hob-nob. Hygiene is alarmingly absent, pollution from traffic and industries spew poison into the air makes it difficult to breathe, exploitation is a daily occurrence in the name of development, and corruption is rampant in the garb of benevolence. Together, these have run Delhi to the ground. Today, the streets of the city I grew up in are pale shadows of their once-haughty past. Except for some swathes (‘oases’ if you will) in the central and southern parts, the city is smelly, dirty and besieged by overflowing drains and filth. The grandeur is craftily showcased when friends and guests arrive from other cities and nations, the reality cunningly draped and hidden away from majestic vision, such as that sported by Donald when Namaste Trump came a-visiting in 2020. And when the G20 brouhaha happened. The challenges are many. City infrastructure is creaking under pressure—roads overwhelmed, sewage lines antiquated and the once-majestic Yamuna now an open sewer. Corruption continues to gnaw at municipal efficiency. A report by Transparency International revealed that “70 per cent of Delhi residents have encountered bribery in civic services.” This is a rot that needs cleansing at various fronts and levels. Given this backdrop, the question in every Dilliwalah’s mind is “will the city get any real change, or just lip service?” The BJP has promised ambitious solutions. Plans include reducing landfill waste by 75 per cent within three years, deploying more electric buses, expanding the Metro network and implementing stricter emission norms. A smog tower has been inaugurated in Connaught Place, though its effectiveness remains debatable. Experts remain cautious. “Delhi’s pollution and waste crisis require systemic changes, not token gestures,” says Sunita Narain, D-G of the Centre for Science and Environment. “Policy enforcement is weak. Unless there is stringent regulation of vehicular emissions and solid waste management, nothing will change.” Citizens have a role to play too. The culture of littering, encroachment and rampant illegal construction has exacerbated the problem. Any government’s efforts will be meaningless if Delhiites themselves do not adopt responsible civic behaviour. The Good & The Bad For those who have lived here long enough, the decay is not merely statistical; it is visceral. I remember the days when Delhi’s air was crisp in the winters and summer evenings carried the scent of mogra, not burnt plastic. The Yamuna, which now resembles a putrid drain, was once a life-sustaining artery. Connaught Place is plagued by smog and illegal encroachments; it once resonated the essence of British imperial charm, pulsating with the vibrant energy that only a city of consequence can offer.

CEPT University Hosts Three Day Global South Academic Conclave on WASH and Climate 2025

Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], February 24: The second edition of the Global South Academic Conclave (GSAC) on WASH and Climate 2025 commenced on February 21 at CEPT University. Organized by the Center for Water and Sanitation (CWAS) at CEPT Research Development Foundation (CRDF) and the Faculty of Planning at CEPT University, with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Viega Foundation, the three-day conclave brought together experts and stakeholders to address critical challenges in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) amidst changing climates. * Participants from 30 countries on CEPT campus from February 21 to 23, 2025 The key highlight of the opening day was the launch of the PAS@15 report, celebrating 15 years of the Performance Assessment System (PAS). This digital platform for urban WASH performance assessment in India, developed by CWAS, has become a vital tool for data-driven improvements in water, sanitation, and climate resilience. Since its launch in 2009, PAS has expanded its reach from 414 to over 800 cities in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Assam and Sikkim, covering a population of 115 million, making it the country's largest WASH and climate-linked database for urban areas. With climate change exacerbating water scarcity, sanitation challenges, and waste pollution, data-driven solutions such as PAS are critical for climate-resilient urban planning. By tracking water efficiency, sanitation infrastructure, and solid waste management, PAS empowers cities to build a sustainable and climate-smart future. PAS has shown that measuring performance can lead to measurable impacts. As cities face climate uncertainties, data-driven governance will be the foundation for sustainable, resilient, and equitable urban development. CEPT University Hosts Three Day Global South Academic Conclave on WASH and Climate 2025 Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], February 24: The second edition of the Global South Academic Conclave (GSAC) on WASH and Climate 2025 commenced on February 21 at CEPT University. Organized by the Center for Water and Sanitation (CWAS) at CEPT Research Development Foundation (CRDF) and the Faculty of Planning at CEPT University, with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Viega Foundation, the three-day conclave brought together experts and stakeholders to address critical challenges in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) amidst changing climates. article_Author ANI Updated At : 03:32 PM Feb 24, 2025 IST fb twitter whatsapp Follow us Follow us Connect with us Connect with us featured-imgfeatured-img Advertisement PRNewswire Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], February 24: The second edition of the Global South Academic Conclave (GSAC) on WASH and Climate 2025 commenced on February 21 at CEPT University. Organized by the Center for Water and Sanitation (CWAS) at CEPT Research Development Foundation (CRDF) and the Faculty of Planning at CEPT University, with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Viega Foundation, the three-day conclave brought together experts and stakeholders to address critical challenges in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) amidst changing climates. * Participants from 30 countries on CEPT campus from February 21 to 23, 2025 Advertisement The key highlight of the opening day was the launch of the PAS@15 report, celebrating 15 years of the Performance Assessment System (PAS). This digital platform for urban WASH performance assessment in India, developed by CWAS, has become a vital tool for data-driven improvements in water, sanitation, and climate resilience. Since its launch in 2009, PAS has expanded its reach from 414 to over 800 cities in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Assam and Sikkim, covering a population of 115 million, making it the country's largest WASH and climate-linked database for urban areas. With climate change exacerbating water scarcity, sanitation challenges, and waste pollution, data-driven solutions such as PAS are critical for climate-resilient urban planning. By tracking water efficiency, sanitation infrastructure, and solid waste management, PAS empowers cities to build a sustainable and climate-smart future. PAS has shown that measuring performance can lead to measurable impacts. As cities face climate uncertainties, data-driven governance will be the foundation for sustainable, resilient, and equitable urban development. Read More Flowers Business Sameer Kanodia, MD and CEO of Lumina Datamatics Honored with the CEO of the Year Award at the 23rd Edition of The Business Leader of the Year' View More right-arrow Advertisement Post the launch of the report, faculty members and Heads of CWAS, Prof Dinesh Mehta and Prof Meera Mehta reflected on the 15-year journey of the initiative and shared the report's key findings. CWAS has been working on urban water and sanitation-related action research since 2009. CWAS began its work when CEPT University received a grant from the Gates Foundation for Performance Assessment System (PAS) Project. Over the past decade, the project has developed an online system, methods, and processes for performance assessment and improvement for urban water supply and sanitation in India. Delivering the opening address, Professor Barjor Mehta, President, CEPT University, highlighted the importance of academic gatherings focused on climate change. He stressed the power of academia to bring diverse stakeholders together to build consensus and drive action. "We, the academia, are the custodians of knowledge, experience and the drive towards addressing the issues of climate change. We must document the developments and foster an active community so that we can continue contributing towards policymaking in the years to come," he said. Over the next two days, the conclave featured discussions on a wide range of topics, including WASH outcome monitoring, governance and financing for climate-resilient WASH, and the intersection of WASH, climate, and urban planning. Keynote addresses were delivered by K Srinivas, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India; Ms. Sheela Patel, Society for the Promotion of Area Resource (SPARC); Ms. Sunita Narain, CSE; Rakesh Mohan, Centre for Social and Economic Progress; Rick Johnston, World Health Organization (WHO); Ashok Khosla, Development Alternatives and Kalanithy Vairavamoorthy, International Water Association (IWA).

S M Sehgal Foundation Organises Workshop on Sustainable Crop Residue Management

S M Sehgal Foundation organized an Inter-Stakeholder Knowledge Exchange Workshop to mobilize collective action for sustainable crop residue management (CRM) at Gurugram, Haryana. The event brought together key stakeholders including policymakers, researchers, agriculture experts, industry representatives, and farmers to deliberate on innovative solutions for reducing crop residue burning and promoting sustainable alternatives. The workshop aimed to enhance collaboration among diverse stakeholders, share best practices, and explore sustainable solutions to address the challenges of crop residue management. Key focus areas of the workshop included Promoting Sustainable Agricultural Practices, Facilitating Knowledge Exchange, Sharing Community Experiences and Insights. Senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR), Indian Agriculture Research Institute (IARI), agriculture universities like Punjab Agriculture University, industry experts from CII, The Nature Conservancy, Energy Harvest Charitable Trust, and Center for Science and Environment actively participated, emphasizing the need for a multi-stakeholder approach. Experts discussed successful case studies on innovative CRM models which have the potential to reduce burning incidents significantly. Special Guest, Dr. Suresh Kumar Chaudhari, Director General, Fertilizer Association of India (FAI) shared, “Collective action and willingness can be the only way to address this issue. Lots of efforts are being made in this direction, and it needs a collective view and approach by several players, including the farmers.” During the workshop, the farming community members shared their experiences highlighting the importance of awareness on CRM, access to cost-effective farm machinery, and the significance of crop diversification. The knowledge exchange provided valuable experiential insights, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities from an inter-stakeholder perspective. Speaking at the event, Nishant Gupta, Social & Environmental Impact Advisor, Walmart.org, mentioned, “Sustainable crop residue management is critical for environmental protection, soil health and air quality improvement. Collaborative efforts are essential to scale up solutions that are both economically viable and ecologically sustainable.” Anjali Makhija, Trustee and CEO, S M Sehgal Foundation, said, “The workshop has been a vital platform for sharing innovative solutions and aligning stakeholders toward a common goal. The topical discussions will lead to convergence of efforts in this regard and pave the way for collaborative action.” The workshop served as a pivotal platform to align efforts across sectors and strengthen commitments towards sustainable agricultural practices. It reinforced the urgency of collective action in mitigating the adverse impacts of crop residue burning and enhancing long-term agricultural sustainability.

From Traditional to Tech-Driven: The Rise of Smart Parking in India with PARK360

India’s rapid urbanization has led to an exponential rise in vehicle ownership, creating a significant challenge in managing parking spaces efficiently. With crowded streets, haphazard parking, and the lack of organized systems, both commuters and authorities struggle to find a seamless parking solution. The traditional approach—manual ticketing, cash payments, and unregulated parking—has proven inefficient. However, the landscape is changing with the emergence of smart parking solutions, and PARK360 is at the forefront of this transformation. The Parking Problem in India A study by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) reveals that vehicles in Indian metros spend nearly 20-30% of their time searching for parking. The economic cost of this inefficiency runs into billions annually due to wasted fuel, lost productivity, and increased pollution. The lack of structured parking also leads to congestion, illegal parking, and security concerns, making it evident that India needs a robust, technology-driven approach to parking management. The Shift Towards Smart Parking Smart parking is a game-changer, utilizing advanced technologies like IoT (Internet of Things), AI (Artificial Intelligence), ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), and cloud computing to optimize parking spaces. It allows for real-time parking availability updates, automated ticketing, digital payments, and security enhancements, making the parking experience smoother and more efficient. PARK360: Leading the Smart Parking Revolution Among the pioneers of this transformation, PARK360 has emerged as a leader in India’s parking management industry. With its AI-driven solutions tailored for commercial complexes, malls, corporate hubs, airports, and event venues, PARK360 is redefining parking efficiency and convenience. Here’s how PARK360 is making a difference: 1. Real-Time Parking Monitoring & Guidance PARK360 integrates IoT-based sensors and AI-driven analytics to monitor available parking spaces in real time. This information is relayed to digital displays, mobile apps, and websites, ensuring that drivers can locate an empty spot without unnecessary delays. The result? Reduced congestion, improved traffic flow, and an enhanced user experience. 2. Automated Entry & Exit with ANPR and RFID Gone are the days of manual parking tickets and long queues at entry/exit points. PARK360’s ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) and RFID-based systems allow vehicles to be identified instantly, granting them seamless access. This not only speeds up the process but also enhances security by maintaining a digital record of vehicle movements. 3. Digital Payment Integration Traditional parking systems heavily rely on cash payments, often leading to delays and inconvenience. PARK360 offers multiple digital payment options, including UPI, e-wallets, credit/debit cards, and contactless payments, allowing users to pay conveniently through a mobile app or automated kiosks. This streamlines operations, improve transparency, and eliminates revenue leakage. 4. Custom Mobile App for Reservations & Navigation PARK360 offers a customized mobile application that digitizes the entire parking space on demand. With a dedicated mobile app users can: Reserve parking spots in advance. Get real-time navigation assistance to their allocated space. Make digital payments effortlessly. Receive detailed invoices and transaction history. Such a feature-rich app transforms the way people perceive parking at a facility—moving from a frustrating necessity to a seamless experience. 5. Advanced Parking Guidance and Valet Parking Solutions For high-traffic areas like shopping malls and corporate hubs, PARK360’s AI-powered parking guidance system directs drivers to vacant spaces efficiently, reducing idle circulation time. Additionally, its valet parking solutions ensure a hassle-free experience, particularly in premium venues, by streamlining vehicle drop-off and retrieval. 6. Data-Driven Decision Making PARK360’s cloud-based dashboard provides real-time insights on parking usage, peak hours, revenue analytics, and vehicle tracking. This data helps authorities and businesses optimize space utilization, adjust pricing strategies, and forecast future demands effectively. 7. Smart Event Parking Management: A Case Study from Aero India 2025 One of PARK360’s most notable achievements has been its successful implementation at Aero India 2025, one of India’s biggest defense and aviation expos. Managing VVIP parking and authorized access control for such a large-scale event was a challenge, but PARK360’s smart parking system ensured smooth vehicle movement, reduced congestion, and secure access management. This case study highlights how scalable and efficient PARK360’s solutions are for mega events and urban spaces alike. The Future of Parking in India with PARK360 With increasing smart city initiatives, the Government of India is pushing for digital and tech-driven infrastructure, making smart parking a crucial part of urban mobility planning. PARK360 is aligning with these smart city goals, offering solutions that cater to municipalities, corporate hubs, and commercial spaces. The future of parking in India will see: AI-powered demand-based dynamic pricing. IoT-enabled sensor system to offer real-time parking guidance system Hassle-free vehicle flow with smart and authorized access control systems Seamless People and Vehicle Authorization for better and efficient security. Conclusion As India moves towards a smarter, more connected future, PARK360 is at the forefront of revolutionizing parking management. By replacing traditional manual systems with AI, IoT, and cloud-powered automation, PARK360 is making parking in India seamless, efficient, and future-ready. For cities, businesses, and event organizers looking to optimize their parking spaces while enhancing user experience, PARK360 is the ultimate partner in driving the smart parking transformation. As the demand for tech-enabled urban mobility solutions grows, PARK360’s innovations will continue to shape the way India parks, one project at a time.

महाकुंभ में गंगा के पानी को लेकर सामने आई रिपोर्ट उड़ा देगी आपके होश, मिला ये खतरनाक बैक्टीरिया

प्रयागराज महाकुंभ के चलते गंगा और यमुना नदियों में प्रदूषण का स्तर बढ़ गया है। केंद्रीय प्रदूषण नियंत्रण बोर्ड (CPCB) ने सोमवार को नेशनल ग्रीन ट्रिब्यूनल (NGT) को अपनी रिपोर्ट सौंपी, जिसमें बताया गया कि महाकुंभ के दौरान प्रयागराज में फेकल कोलीफॉर्म बैक्टीरिया की मात्रा बढ़ी है। इसके कारण नदी के पानी में प्रदूषण का स्तर नहाने के लिए तय प्राथमिक जल गुणवत्ता मानकों के अनुरूप नहीं रहा है। CPCB की रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, सीवेज के गंदे पानी के संकेतक माने जाने वाले फेकल कोलीफॉर्म की अधिकतम सीमा 2500 यूनिट प्रति 100 मिली निर्धारित है। हालांकि, महाकुंभ के दौरान अलग-अलग स्थानों पर इसका स्तर बढ़ा पाया गया है। गंगा और यमुना में सीवेज के बहाव को रोकने को लेकर अभी भी NGT में सुनवाई चल रही है। इससे पहले, एनजीटी ने महाकुंभ में सीवेज प्रबंधन को लेकर यूपी सरकार को निर्देश जारी किए थे ताकि नदियों के बढ़ते प्रदूषण को रोका जा सके। फेकल कोलीफॉर्म क्या है, और सुरक्षित स्तर क्या हैं? फेकल कोलीफॉर्म की मात्रा से सीवेज में मौजूद मल पदार्थ की ताकत का आकलन किया जाता है। यह एक जल गुणवत्ता संकेतक है, जो उन रोगजनकों की उपस्थिति को इंगित करता है जो आमतौर पर डायरिया, टाइफाइड और अन्य आंतों से संबंधित बीमारियों का कारण बनते हैं। सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट (CSE) की एक रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, फेकल कोलीफॉर्म का स्तर पानी में प्रदूषण की गंभीरता को मापने का एक महत्वपूर्ण मानक है। शहरी विकास मंत्रालय द्वारा 2004 में गठित एक समिति ने यह सिफारिश की थी कि फेकल कोलीफॉर्म की आदर्श सीमा 500 MPN/100ml होनी चाहिए, जबकि अधिकतम स्वीकार्य सीमा 2,500 MPN/100ml निर्धारित की गई थी, ताकि इसे नदियों में छोड़ा जा सके। MPN/100ml का अर्थ है – पानी के 100 मिलीलीटर के नमूने में फेकल कोलीफॉर्म बैक्टीरिया की संभावित संख्या। केंद्रीय पर्यावरण, वन और जलवायु परिवर्तन मंत्रालय के केंद्रीय प्रदूषण नियंत्रण बोर्ड (CPCB) द्वारा महाकुंभ 2025 के लिए जल गुणवत्ता डैशबोर्ड में बताया गया है कि गंगा और यमुना के विभिन्न स्थानों पर फेकल कोलीफॉर्म का स्तर 2,500 MPN/100ml से अधिक नहीं होना चाहिए। हालांकि, 4 फरवरी को दर्ज किए गए ताजा आंकड़ों के अनुसार, गंगा नदी में फेकल कोलीफॉर्म का स्तर शास्त्री ब्रिज से पहले 11,000 MPN/100ml और संगम क्षेत्र में 7,900 MPN/100ml पाया गया। शास्त्री ब्रिज, गंगा नदी पर संगम से लगभग 2 किलोमीटर पहले स्थित है। यमुना नदी में संगम स्थल से पहले, पुराने नैनी ब्रिज के पास, फेकल कोलीफॉर्म का स्तर 4,900 MPN/100ml दर्ज किया गया। ये सभी आंकड़े बंसत पंचमी के अगले दिन दर्ज किए गए, जो इस वर्ष 3 फरवरी को हुआ था और जिसे शाही स्नान दिवस के रूप में मनाया गया। फेकल कोलीफॉर्म कितना खतरनाक है? हालांकि कोलीफॉर्म बैक्टीरिया स्वयं बीमारियों का कारण नहीं बनता, लेकिन यह पानी में मलजनित रोगजनकों जैसे बैक्टीरिया, वायरस और प्रोटोजोआ की उपस्थिति का संकेत देता है। सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट (CSE) की रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, यह पानी की गुणवत्ता का एक महत्वपूर्ण संकेतक है, जो जलजनित संक्रमण के जोखिम को दर्शाता है। नई दिल्ली के सर गंगाराम अस्पताल में आंतरिक चिकित्सा विभाग के वरिष्ठ सलाहकार डॉ. अतुल कक्कड़ के अनुसार, "स्वच्छता के स्तर और आवश्यक तैयारियों में काफी कमी है, जिसके कारण हमारे मल में मौजूद बैक्टीरिया पानी में प्रवेश कर रहे हैं।" उन्होंने कहा, "यह पानी न तो पीने योग्य है और न ही नहाने के लिए सुरक्षित है। रिपोर्ट भी इसी ओर इशारा कर रही है।" डॉ. कक्कड़ ने समाचार एजेंसी PTI को बताया कि संक्रमित पानी के संपर्क में आने से कई जलजनित बीमारियां हो सकती हैं, जिनमें त्वचा रोग, दस्त, उल्टी, टाइफाइड और हैजा शामिल हैं। विश्व स्वास्थ्य संगठन (WHO) की एक रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, पीने के पानी में फेकल कोलीफॉर्म बैक्टीरिया की मौजूदगी से गंभीर संक्रामक और परजीवी रोगों जैसे हैजा, टाइफाइड, पेचिश, हेपेटाइटिस, गियार्डियासिस, गिनी वर्म और स्किस्टोसोमियासिस फैलने का खतरा बढ़ जाता है। नई दिल्ली स्थित सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट (CSE) की रिपोर्ट में कहा गया है कि "जल स्रोतों की सतह पर यह बैक्टीरियल संदूषण स्वास्थ्य के लिए जोखिम पैदा करता है, खासकर जब इस पानी का उपयोग घरेलू उद्देश्यों के लिए किया जाता है, जैसे कि पीने, नहाने या खेती के लिए।" भारत में कोई भी शहर पूरी तरह से अपने सीवेज प्रबंधन की समस्या को हल नहीं कर पाया है। रिपोर्ट में आगे कहा गया है कि "सीवेज उपचार की कमी और बैक्टीरियोलॉजिकल मानकों के अभाव का किसानों के स्वास्थ्य पर प्रतिकूल प्रभाव पड़ा है, खासकर वे जो दूषित पानी का उपयोग करते हैं।" उत्तर प्रदेश के वाराणसी में 1990 के दशक में किए गए एक अध्ययन का हवाला देते हुए रिपोर्ट में बताया गया कि अशोधित सीवेज का उपयोग करने वाले खेत मजदूरों में डायरिया, रक्त संक्रमण और त्वचा रोगों की दर काफी अधिक थी। अध्ययन के अनुसार, मल परीक्षण में हुकवर्म (41.7%), राउंडवर्म (29.2%), ट्रिचुरिस ट्रिचुरा (16.7%) और गियार्डिया लैंब्लिया (33.3%) की उच्च उपस्थिति देखी गई। त्वचा रोगों की संभावना 42.5% तक पाई गई। KnowYourH2O (जो सुरक्षित पेयजल को बढ़ावा देने के लिए काम करने वाला एक अमेरिकी संगठन है) के अनुसार, "फेकल कोलीफॉर्म बैक्टीरिया से अत्यधिक प्रदूषित पानी में स्नान करने से बुखार, मतली, पेट दर्द और त्वचा संक्रमण होने की संभावना बढ़ जाती है।" संक्रमित पानी में नहाने से टाइफाइड, हेपेटाइटिस, गैस्ट्रोएंटेराइटिस, पेचिश और कान में संक्रमण भी हो सकता है। इसलिए, अगर पानी में फेकल कोलीफॉर्म का स्तर 2,500 MPN/100ml से अधिक है, तो उसमें स्नान करना स्वास्थ्य के लिए गंभीर खतरा हो सकता है।

366 ‘polluting’ industries on NGT radar, joint panel set up for probe in Haryana

Gurgaon: National Green Tribunal (NGT) has constituted a joint committee to investigate if 366 industries are violating environmental norms in Faridabad and are responsible for polluting air and water. The committee is expected to submit its report to the tribunal within eight weeks. The order was uploaded on Saturday. Faridabad district magistrate will act as the nodal agency in the joint committee. The next date of hearing is on May 20. The tribunal was hearing a petition by a resident who claimed that units in several villages are operating without necessary clearances and are causing substantial air and water pollution. On Wednesday (Feb 12), applicant Narender Sirohi — while supporting these claims with photographic evidence — said that these units were allegedly using coal in industrial furnaces, burning plastic and metal scraps and operating without the required consent to establish (CTE) and consent to operate (CTO) certificates. The villages, which were referred to by Sirohi during the hearing, include Saroorpur, Kureshipur, Madalpur, Karnera, Fatehpur Tagah, Nangla, Nekpur, Ghazipur, Kheri Gujran and Bhankri. The tribunal directed the joint committee to "visit the sites, verify the allegations and identify units" operating without necessary environmental clearances. They will also randomly check the units to confirm their compliance with environmental norms. Chairperson Prakash Shrivastava and expert member Dr A Senthil Vel said in their order, "The original application (OA) raises substantial issues relating to compliance with environmental norms. Issue notice to the respondents for filing their response/reply by way of affidavit at least one week before the next date of hearing through e-filing." The order said, "The applicant is directed to serve the respondents and file the affidavit of service at least one week before the next hearing date. Having regard to the seriousness of the issue raised in the OA, we also deem it proper to constitute a joint committee comprising the representative of the member secretary, Central Pollution Control Board; member secretary, Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB); regional office, MoEF & CC, Chandigarh; and Faridabad DM. Faridabad DM will act as the nodal agency in the joint committee." "The committee will also check the units, the geo-coordinates of which are disclosed by the applicant in annexure A/1 on a random basis and ascertain if the units are operating at those locations by flouting the norms. The joint committee will submit the report before the tribunal within eight weeks," it said. Shubhansh Tiwari, a research associate at the Centre for Science and Environment, said, "These units pollute water by discharging untreated effluents directly into drains and the air by emitting noxious particles. They also cause noise pollution. These units need to move out of residential areas. Civic bodies need to conduct regular checks to ensure they are operating while following all norms."