On the shelf?

Centre’s intent on ambient air quality standards unclear, India’s national ambient air quality standards have hit a roadblock. Revised after 14 years and finalized in May, the standards await the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests’ (moef) clearance.

Looks like the clearance will have to wait further because the ministry may scrutinize the recommendations. Critics say the scrutiny is unnecessary and suspect it is a “please-the-industry” move. moef is expected to form another technical committee to vet the proposals made by a steering committee comprising officials of the ministry itself, the Central Pollution Control Board (cpcb), academics and research institutes.

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