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The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has submitted a detailed report to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which sheds light on the current status of environmental fund utilization for air pollution control measures in the Delhi-NCR region. The report reveals that they have only used a mere 20% of the earmarked funds, amounting to approximately Rs 156 crore out of Rs 777 crore.
The report states that the Environmental Protection Charge (EPC) account has accumulated Rs 383.89 crore, but it has only disbursed Rs 95.4 crore, leaving a substantial balance for future environmental endeavours.
The order, a copy of which Ground Report possesses, shows a disbursement breakdown by the CPCB highlighting the allocation of Rs 6.68 crore to the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation for road construction and repairs. Upon project completion, they will release further funds. Moreover, the funds have supported an array of activities such as scientific studies, inspection drives, Clean Air Campaigns, procurement of laboratory equipment, and the setting up of Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations.
The Supreme Court orders the receipt of the EPC, which is utilized for air quality improvement and related work in Delhi-NCR such as research and development activities and vehicular pollution control. It is also used for health impact studies and specific projects to control pollution in Delhi-NCR and Punjab.
The authority has earmarked significant funds for the procurement of Mechanical Road Sweeping Machines, Anti-smog guns, and roadworks, amounting to Rs 22.8 crore and Rs 10.6 crore, respectively. Meanwhile, proposals worth Rs 69.4 crore are awaiting approval, pending regulatory compliance.
The report emphasizes the critical role of regulatory frameworks in the effective utilization and recovery of funds. It notes the directive for State Pollution Control Boards to contribute 25% of recovered amounts to the CPCB, facilitating the work of NGT-appointed committees for environmental regulation.
Regarding the NGT Environmental Compensation (EC) accounts, the report details deposits of Rs 126.64 crore in the NGT EC 25% account and Rs 267.16 crore in the NGT EC 75% account, inclusive of bank interest till November 30, 2023. The disbursement status indicates that Rs 45.39 crore from the NGT EC 25% account and Rs 15.54 crore from the NGT EC 75% account have been released, leaving significant balances for future disbursements aligned with environmental protection directives.
Expenditures have been directed towards strengthening laboratories, expanding monitoring networks, and fulfilling NGT mandates, highlighting a comprehensive approach to environmental management.
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