As air quality continues to deteriorate across the national capital and surrounding regions, experts have stressed the need for clearly defined and measurable clean air targets for Delhi-NCR. The Delhi government has recently announced emergency measures, including the formation of a high-level committee to finalise an air pollution control plan for 2026, but experts say stronger coordination and long-term planning are essential.
Air pollution is not limited by administrative boundaries, making regional cooperation critical. The creation of the Commission for Air Quality Management, which oversees Delhi-NCR and adjoining areas, is seen as a positive step. However, its impact must be strengthened through coordinated action across departments such as transport, urban development, agriculture, industry and municipal bodies, supported by incentives for compliance and penalties for violations.
Experts have called for a regional target of reducing PM2.5 levels by 30 percent across Delhi-NCR over the next three years. Such a goal would push authorities to move beyond incremental changes and adopt more ambitious solutions. This would require an integrated monitoring framework that tracks actions taken by different departments and ensures accountability at both regional and local levels.
Clear annual responsibilities need to be defined for each department, backed by strong political consensus across NCR states. Disaggregated monitoring and hyperlocal air quality data can help identify pollution hotspots in real time and enable faster corrective action on the ground.
Reducing emissions from the transport sector remains a major priority. Governments must expand mass transit options such as electric buses, walking and cycling infrastructure, while making clean transport alternatives more affordable and accessible. Segment-wise targets for zero-emission vehicles can help address the unique challenges faced by different vehicle categories and accelerate the transition to clean mobility.
A unified NCR-wide data system is also needed to monitor pollution sources and audit compliance. A single digital platform that aggregates data from construction sites and sensors can ensure faster coordination between departments and quicker enforcement actions.
Dust-intensive activities contribute significantly to air pollution and can be reduced through technological solutions. Promoting prefabricated construction and cleaner building methods can help lower particulate matter emissions. Open burning of municipal solid waste is another major issue, highlighting the need for better waste processing infrastructure and decentralised composting systems across cities.
Behavioural change is equally important in tackling air pollution. Discouraging waste burning, reducing personal vehicle use and promoting cleaner industrial practices align with the government’s Mission LiFE initiative. Experts suggest setting realistic behaviour-focused goals supported by public engagement, enabling infrastructure, continuous monitoring and recognition of positive outcomes.
With a clear three-year roadmap, measurable targets, strong enforcement and active citizen participation, experts believe India can significantly improve air quality in Delhi-NCR. Companies are also encouraged to assess emission sources across their operations and supply chains, adopt mitigation measures and report progress transparently to build credibility and drive lasting improvements.