APPCB orders enforcement of pollution limits as Visakhapatnam PM10 levels hit 238 micrograms
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims·
Environmental governance and air quality management: a GS3 case study on regulatory enforcement.
Why in news
The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) ordered the enforcement of pollution limits and noise regulations in Visakhapatnam as PM10 levels reached 238 micrograms per cubic metre during Deepavali.
Background
The APPCB directed district administrations and police to monitor pollution and enforce environmental regulations. The board reported PM10 levels of up to 238 micrograms per cubic metre in Visakhapatnam.
Facts for Prelims
- FactPM10 levels in Visakhapatnam reached up to 238 micrograms per cubic metre.
- BodyCSIR-NEERI is the body responsible for approving green crackers.
- PlaceVisakhapatnam is the city where the pollution levels were monitored.
- FactFirecrackers are prohibited within 300 metres of hospitals.
Prelims practice question
Which body is responsible for approving green crackers in India?
- (a)CPCB
- (b)NITI Aayog
- (c)MoEFCC
- (d)CSIR-NEERI
Show answer
Answer: (d) CSIR-NEERI — The note identifies CSIR-NEERI as the body responsible for approving green crackers.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the challenges in enforcing air quality standards during festive seasons and suggest measures to balance cultural traditions with public health requirements.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Regulatory bottleneck: Difficulty in real-time monitoring of localized particulate matter spikes
- Enforcement gap: Coordination challenges between district administrations and police for noise and air compliance
Keywords: Air Quality Index · Particulate Matter · Environmental Governance · Public Health · Regulatory Compliance
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.