Congress Challenges Ministry on Air Quality Standards Review

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has asked the Environment Ministry for an update on the review of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards from 2009. Commissioned by the Central Pollution Control Board in 2021, this review could lead to stricter environmental regulations, but results remain undisclosed.

In a bid to hold the government accountable, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has questioned the Environment Ministry about the stagnant review of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) from 2009. These standards, which address twelve major pollutants, were last updated more than a decade ago and may soon require stricter enforcement.

Appointed by the Central Pollution Control Board in 2021, IIT-Kanpur was tasked with evaluating the NAAQS to ensure they meet the current environmental challenges. Ramesh highlights a concerning lack of transparency, noting that results from the review have yet to be disclosed.

Tagging Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav in his statement, Ramesh stresses the urgent need for the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change to break its silence. His call to action comes amid allegations that the government may relax standards, potentially undermining air quality improvements.

(With inputs from agencies.)