Delhi Pollution Control Committee Faces Staffing Crisis Amid Air Quality Concerns

Delhi is grappling with severe air quality issues, prompting the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to address a significant staffing crisis. With 189 out of 344 positions vacant, the DPCC has announced plans to recruit 52 new staff members through a phased application process. Experts warn that the lack of personnel is hindering effective pollution monitoring and enforcement, posing health risks to residents. This recruitment initiative is seen as a crucial step towards improving air quality and ensuring better compliance with environmental regulations. Discover how these changes could impact the city's air quality and public health.

By Ambika Singh Nov 25, 2025, 10:19 IST

Current Air Quality Crisis in Delhi

New Delhi: The air quality in Delhi has reached alarming levels, causing significant distress among residents. Many individuals are finding themselves frequenting hospitals due to health issues related to pollution. The ongoing rise in pollution levels is raising serious concerns, putting the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) under immense pressure. Out of the sanctioned 344 positions, 189 remain unfilled, leading to delays in field inspections and enforcement of regulations. In response, the DPCC has announced a recruitment notification for 52 positions, which will be filled through deputation and short-term contracts.

Impact of Vacant Positions

The shortage of technical staff at DPCC has severely affected field inspections and industrial monitoring. Environmental activist Bhavreen Kandhari highlights that the lack of personnel hampers proper compliance with regulations, allowing pollution sources to remain unchecked for extended periods. This accumulation of harmful substances in the air poses a significant threat to public health. Additionally, the deficiency of technical experts adversely impacts air quality monitoring and waste management efforts.

Details of the Recruitment Process

DPCC has issued a notification for the recruitment of 52 positions, targeting qualified officials for deputation and short-term contracts. Applications will be accepted in three phases: the first on November 30, the second on December 15, and the third on December 31. Eligible candidates may include officials currently working in central or state governments, research institutions, autonomous bodies, and public sector units. This recruitment process aims to enhance the operational capacity of DPCC.

Effects on Technical Operations

The lack of staff is hindering the technical operations of DPCC. Delays in real-time air quality monitoring, industrial pollution control, and waste management are becoming more frequent. The shortage of technical and enforcement officers obstructs compliance with regulations, weakening pollution prevention efforts and allowing harmful elements to persist in the air.

Legal Actions Hampered

The vacancies are diminishing DPCC's ability to coordinate with central agencies, causing delays in policy implementation and obstructing the development of solid, data-driven plans. The shortage of staff directly affects the effective enforcement of pollution laws. Experts warn that this is not merely an administrative delay but also a growing risk to the health of millions of citizens.

Strengthening Through Recruitment

The recruitment of 52 new positions is expected to empower DPCC significantly. An increase in technical and administrative capabilities will enhance field inspections, regulatory compliance, and pollution control efforts. Experts believe that this initiative could be pivotal in improving the air quality in Delhi and positively impacting the health of its residents.