The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has introduced a Dust Pollution Control Self-Assessment portal, requiring all construction and demolition (C&D) projects in Delhi to register and upload regular dust control audits. This initiative aligns with the directives issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on December 20, 2021, targeting dust pollution from large-scale construction activities. Under the new mandate, all C&D projects occupying 500 square meters or more must register on the portal to enable self-assessment and remote monitoring of dust control measures. Builders and contractors must conduct fortnightly self-audits and submit declarations through the portal to ensure compliance. Additionally, construction sites within the National Capital Region (NCR) with plot sizes of 500 square meters or more must install video fencing and deploy low-cost PM2.5 and PM10 sensors to monitor air quality in real-time. The guidelines also call for the use of anti-smog guns based on the project size—one gun for sites between 5,000 and 10,000 square meters and at least four for projects over 20,000 square meters, as per CAQM's guidelines issued on November 2, 2022. The DPCC emphasised that registered sites must remain active on the portal until construction is complete, ensuring sustained dust control efforts throughout the project’s duration. Non-compliance will result in strict penalties, including environmental compensation charges and potential suspension of construction activities. This move follows directives from the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal aimed at curbing dust pollution, which is a major contributor to Delhi's declining air quality. By enabling continuous monitoring and data-driven enforcement, the portal aims to support Delhi's broader effort to combat pollution levels effectively. (Business Standard)