In a move to comprehensively prevent, control and abate air pollution caused by Diesel Generator (DG) sets in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has directed NCR State Governments and NCR Pollution Control Boards (PCBs)/DPCC vide Direction No. 71 that  w.e.f. 15.05.2023, for periods other than during ban/ restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), any use of Diesel Generator (DG) sets of capacity up to 800 kW shall be permitted for industrial and commercial sector in the entire NCR, only subject to their conversion to dual fuel system (70% gas + 30% diesel) in areas where gas infrastructure and supply is available.

DG sets operations are selectively permitted in industrial applications in the periods under GRAP provided they are equipped with Retro-fit Emission Control Devices (RECD) in accordance with the CPCB guidelines towards a minimum PM capturing efficiency of 70% for in-use DG sets up to 800 kW gross power category and such DG sets are also converted to run in a dual fuel mode (Natural Gas and Diesel), in areas where gas infrastructure and supply is available.

CAQM has observed that amongst others, uncontrolled use of DG sets is a matter of concern. A large number of DG sets operating in the region without adequate emission control measures, even during the periods other than the ban under GRAP, cause heavy air pollution and are thus a major contributing factor for deterioration of air quality in the region. Therefore, regulating the use of DG Sets even for the periods when there is no ban or restrictions imposed under the GRAP, is the need of the hour.

Further, it is reiterated that operation of DG sets during period of restrictions/ ban under the GRAP is regulated in the NCR as per Direction No. 54-57 dated 08.02.2022 and Direction No. 68 dated 14.09.2022 read with Order dated 16.12.2022. Moreover, NCR State PCBs/DPCC to ensure compliance of the directions through suitable consent mechanisms and periodic monitoring.

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