The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued a notice to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas, along with other authorities, regarding alleged construction activities carried out by a central government body in violation of Stage III and IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
The NGT's action follows a plea claiming that the Centre for Development of Telematics, a Union government-owned entity, proceeded with construction activities from November 22, 2025, onward, despite the restrictions in place. These activities reportedly involved extensive demolition and construction work for approximately 80 washrooms within the organization's office campus. The plea alleges that despite complaints to the relevant authorities, no action was taken to halt the construction.
The applicant in the case, Shubham Verma, has also highlighted the serious health impacts allegedly caused by the dust and pollution resulting from the construction. Verma claims that his two-month-old infant daughter is facing severe health issues, and that he himself suffers from allergic bronchitis, which has forced him to stay away from his child. Verma is seeking compensation of ₹7,11,000 for medical expenses and suffering.
The NGT's Principal Bench, comprising Justice Prakash Shrivastava (Chairperson) and Dr. A. Senthil Vel (Expert Member), has observed that the matter raises a substantial issue concerning compliance with environmental norms. The Tribunal has directed CAQM to consider the applicant's complaint, conduct a ground verification, ascertain any violations, and take remedial and punitive action as per the law within 10 days. CAQM is also required to file an Action Taken Report at least one week before the next hearing, which is scheduled for February 17, 2026.
GRAP is a set of emergency measures implemented in Delhi-NCR to combat air pollution based on the Air Quality Index (AQI). When the AQI reaches certain levels, stricter measures are imposed, including restrictions on construction and demolition activities. Stage III and IV of GRAP entail stringent restrictions to curb pollution.
Interestingly, recent reports indicate that Stage III of GRAP has been revoked due to a marked improvement in air quality across Delhi-NCR. The decision to revoke Stage III was taken following favorable meteorological conditions and a sustained downward trend in AQI levels. The Commission for Air Quality Management noted that Delhi's air quality had improved due to strong winds and favorable weather conditions, with the AQI standing at 222. Consequently, private construction and demolition activities, mining, and allied operations have been allowed to resume with immediate effect. Restrictions imposed on the operation of BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles under Stage III have also been lifted.
Despite the revocation of Stage III, the NGT's notice to CAQM highlights the importance of addressing alleged violations that occurred during the period when stricter measures were in place. The case underscores the need for strict enforcement of environmental regulations and accountability for any breaches, even if the overall air quality has improved. The NGT's intervention seeks to ensure that authorities take swift action to address the alleged violations and prevent future occurrences.
