The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) plays a key role in environmental regulation across India. In Delhi, CPCB works closely with the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to monitor pollution, enforce compliance, and regulate industries.
This FAQs-based guide answers Delhi- and India-specific CPCB queries that businesses, startups, factories, consultants, and citizens commonly search for.
What is the role of CPCB in Delhi?
In Delhi, CPCB:
- Sets national pollution standards
- Monitors air quality, water quality, and emissions
- Issues directions under Section 18 of the Air & Water Acts
- Oversees GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) during high pollution
- Coordinates with DPCC, CAQM, and MoEFCC
Central Pollution Control Board does not issue routine consents in Delhi—that role is handled by DPCC.
What is DPCC and how is it different from CPCB?
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) functions as the State Pollution Control Board for Delhi.
| CPCB | DPCC |
|---|---|
| Central authority (India-wide) | Delhi-specific authority |
| Frames national standards | Implements standards in Delhi |
| Issues national directions | Grants CTE/CTO in Delhi |
| Oversees SPCBs/DPCC | Inspects local units |
👉 Delhi-based businesses deal directly with DPCC, not CPCB, for most approvals.
Who needs pollution control approval in Delhi?
In Delhi, approvals are required for:
- Manufacturing units
- Warehouses and godowns
- Hotels, restaurants, and banquet halls
- Hospitals and diagnostic labs
- Construction and demolition projects
- Diesel Generator (DG) set users
- E-commerce sellers (EPR cases)
Even small units may need registration depending on pollution category.
What are Red, Orange, Green, and White category industries in Delhi?
DPCC classifies industries into:
- Red – Highly polluting (strict norms)
- Orange – Moderate pollution
- Green – Low pollution
- White – Practically non-polluting
This classification determines:
- Consent requirements
- Inspection frequency
- Validity period of approvals
Is Consent to Establish (CTE) mandatory in Delhi?
Yes. CTE is mandatory in Delhi before:
- Setting up a new industrial unit
- Expanding capacity
- Changing product or process
- Shifting location
CTE approval is issued by DPCC, based on CPCB guidelines.
Is Consent to Operate (CTO) required in Delhi?
Yes. CTO is compulsory before starting operations.
CTO ensures:
- Pollution control systems are functional
- Emission and effluent norms are met
- Waste disposal arrangements are approved
Operating without CTO in Delhi can lead to closure and penalties.
What is CPCB’s role in Delhi’s air pollution control?
CPCB plays a major role in:
- Operating CAAQMS air quality stations
- Publishing Delhi AQI data
- Implementing GRAP measures
- Advising on vehicle emission norms
- Monitoring industrial emissions
During severe pollution episodes, Central Pollution Control Board directions are legally binding.
What is GRAP and how does CPCB enforce it in Delhi?
GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) is enforced when AQI crosses certain levels.
CPCB:
- Declares AQI severity levels
- Recommends restrictions (construction ban, DG ban, etc.)
- Coordinates with CAQM, DPCC, Delhi Govt
Violations during GRAP can lead to immediate shutdowns.
Do Delhi businesses need Central Pollution Control Board EPR registration?
Yes, EPR registration is mandatory at the CPCB level (not DPCC) for:
- Plastic packaging producers
- E-waste producers/importers
- Battery manufacturers/importers
- Brand owners selling in Delhi
EPR is handled through centralized CPCB portals, even for Delhi businesses.
Is CPCB registration required for e-commerce sellers in Delhi?
Yes, if the seller:
- Uses plastic packaging
- Sells electronics or batteries
- Imports packaged products
- Operates as a brand owner
Delhi-based Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho sellers often require Central Pollution Control Board EPR registration.
What is the penalty for pollution violations in Delhi?
Penalties may include:
- Closure notices
- Environmental compensation
- Sealing of premises
- Disconnection of electricity/water
- Legal action under NGT
Delhi enforcement is strict, especially for air pollution.
How does CPCB monitor water pollution in Delhi?
Central Pollution Control Board monitors:
- Yamuna river pollution
- Industrial effluent discharge
- STP performance
- Groundwater contamination
Industries discharging wastewater must meet Central Pollution Control Board effluent standards.
Does CPCB issue Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates in Delhi?
No. PUC certificates are issued by:
- Authorized vehicle testing centers
- Under Delhi Transport Department
Central Pollution Control Board only sets vehicle emission norms.
Can Central Pollution Control Board shut down industries in Delhi?
Yes. CPCB can:
- Issue closure directions
- Recommend action to DPCC
- Enforce NGT orders
- Order disconnection of utilities
This power is frequently exercised during severe pollution episodes.
Is CPCB approval required for construction projects in Delhi?
Large construction projects require:
- Environmental Clearance (EC)
- Dust control compliance
- Waste management plans
Central Pollution Control Board guidelines apply, while approvals are processed via PARIVESH portal.
How can Delhi residents check CPCB AQI data?
Delhi AQI can be checked via:
- Central Pollution Control Board AQI platforms
- Government AQI dashboards
- Public AQI display boards
Central Pollution Control Board provides real-time AQI updates for Delhi locations.
What are common CPCB-related compliance mistakes in Delhi?
Common mistakes include:
- Operating without DPCC CTO
- Ignoring DG set norms
- No EPR registration
- Construction dust violations
- Exceeding noise limits
These mistakes often result in immediate action in Delhi.
Why is Central Pollution Control Board compliance critical in Delhi?
Delhi is:
- India’s most regulated pollution zone
- Under constant monitoring by NGT & CAQM
- Subject to seasonal emergency restrictions
Central Pollution Control Board compliance is essential to:
- Avoid shutdowns
- Protect business continuity
- Meet legal and environmental obligations
Final Takeaway
The Central Pollution Control Board is the backbone of the environmental governance structure in India. Whether you are an entrepreneur, industrialist, consultant, or a common citizen, it is important to know the CPCB regulations and comply with them to avoid any legal troubles and work towards sustainable development.
If you are planning to start or conduct any business that has environmental implications, it is not optional but mandatory to register with the Central Pollution Control Board.