CPCB orders closure of non-compliant industries in Delhi-NCR

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has directed authorities to initiate closure proceedings against industrial units in the Delhi-NCR region that have failed to comply with updated air pollution standards. The directive instructs the Delhi Pollution Control Committee and the state pollution control boards of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to issue show-cause notices to industries that have not placed work orders for the installation or retrofitting of Air Pollution Control Devices (APCDs).

The enforcement action follows the implementation of a revised particulate matter emission limit of 50 mg/Nm³, which took effect on October 1, 2026. Affected sectors include 17 categories of highly polluting industries, medium and large red-category units, food processing plants, textile units using boilers, and metal industries operating furnaces.

Under the directive, if a unit fails to provide valid proof of a work order, exemption, or adequacy assessment within five days, the respective pollution control board is instructed to order its closure. Units may only resume operations once they have submitted the required documentation and placed the necessary work orders.