As part of its continuing drive against illegal and polluting industrial units in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) conducted a Special Intensive Inspection Drive in Loni, Ghaziabad on 25.08.2026 under Operation Clean Air. The inspection drive was undertaken with a focus on identifying units operating illegally outside environmental regulatory mechanisms.

Seven flying squads were deployed by the Commission, along with Magistrates, Police and Officials of the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) to conduct inspections across 28 industrial premises in Loni, Ghaziabad. The inspections revealed widespread non-compliances, with all 28 inspected premises found to be non-compliant with applicable environmental norms.

         

The major violations observed during the inspections included 21 cases operating without valid Consent to Operate (CTO), 14 cases of use of unapproved fuels such as wood and coal, and in 8 cases, operation of furnaces without requisite Air Pollution Control Devices (APCDs) and stack/ chimney arrangements, and operation of industrial activities without adequate air pollution control infrastructure. Instances of open painting/ powder-coating activities and illegal operation of industrial units were also observed.

      

Taking cognizance of the violations, 16 units/ premises were sealed by UPPCB, along with District Administration and Flying Squad. 6 preliminary reports/ Show Cause Notices (SCNs) were served upon the concerned units. In another 6 cases, notices were pasted on the premises/ doors, including instances where units were found locked, or occupants had vacated the premises upon noticing the arrival of inspecting officers.

The Commission has reiterated that industrial units operating in the NCR are required to strictly comply with all applicable environmental norms. Operation of industrial activities without valid statutory consents, use of unapproved fuels and operation of furnaces/ processes without requisite air pollution control arrangements constitute serious violations and warrant strict enforcement action(s).

The Commission further emphasized that inspection and enforcement drives under Operation Clean Air shall continue across NCR to monitor on-ground compliance with stipulated norms and to facilitate timely corrective action(s) against violations. The concerned agencies have been directed to ensure strict compliance and take necessary action(s) against defaulting units.

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