Operation design and local coordination
The inspection was carried out jointly with the district administration and supported by Deputy Commissioners, duty magistrates and local police. Teams covered both conforming and non-conforming industrial areas, with the district administration allocating inspection zones to ensure methodical coverage and operational safety.
Numbers and breakdown of violations
A total of 101 inspections included six C&D sites and 95 industrial locations. In non-conforming areas, 55 inspections identified 21 violations (including two C&D sites). In conforming industrial areas, 46 inspections found eight violations (including three C&D sites). The preliminary assessment flagged 29 violators overall.
Major non-compliances observed
Inspectors documented recurring breaches: use of unapproved fuels, absent or malfunctioning Air Pollution Control Devices (APCDs), operations without a valid Consent to Operate (CTO) from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), and violations of prescribed C&D norms. Approximately 20 units were reported to have malfunctioning APCDs during the sweep.
Regulatory context and GRAP linkage
CAQM said the Sonipat operation forms part of a sustained enforcement push during the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) period, when intensified monitoring is essential to limit emissions that could worsen regional air quality. The Commission has repeatedly urged state and district authorities to tighten on-ground compliance ahead of seasonal pollution spikes.
Rationale for strict enforcement
CAQM officials underlined that strict inspections target emission sources and protect communities situated near industrial clusters. Prompt detection and action help prevent fugitive dust, toxic stack emissions and other hazards that compromise public health. The Commission described such drives as necessary to enforce statutory directions and restore compliance quickly.
Next steps and likely actions
While the initial report lists preliminary findings, affected units are expected to face follow-up notices, directions for remedial measures, and potential penal action if violations continue. CAQM typically coordinates with the SPCB and local administration to ensure corrective measures including repair or installation of APCDs, fuel compliance and regular monitoring are implemented promptly.
Implications for industry and construction sectors
The inspection sends a clear signal to industrial and construction operators across the NCR that compliance is being actively enforced. For the construction sector, adherence to C&D norms — covering dust management, waste handling and sealing of debris remains a high priority to reduce local particulate pollution.
For further details on CAQM directives and the Commission’s enforcement framework, see the official CAQM portal and the Press Information Bureau release.
