Delhi Cracks Down on Pollution Norm Violations at Construction Sites

27 Nov 2024 CW Team

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has intensified inspections of construction and demolition (C&D) sites under the Grade Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stages III and IV to combat pollution. Between November 1 and 25, over 5,500 sites were inspected, with 420 identified as violating dust mitigation guidelines.

Key Findings: Sites Under 500 sqm: 367 sites failed to implement prescribed dust control measures, with three receiving closure notices. Environmental compensation penalties were imposed on the others. Sites Over 500 sqm: Of 1,368 sites inspected, 53 were found non-compliant, resulting in one closure notice and penalties for the remaining violators. Previous Action: From April to October 2024, the MCD booked 1,372 sites for GRAP violations, imposing penalties totaling ?2.7 crore, of which ?16.8 lakh has been collected.

GRAP Restrictions: Stage III: Bans dust-generating activities such as excavation, demolition, trench work, masonry, road construction, and major repairs. Stage IV: Extends restrictions to public infrastructure projects, including highways, flyovers, power transmission lines, and pipelines. MCD officials emphasized strict enforcement, stating, “We inspected 4,181 smaller sites and over 1,300 larger plots, finding violations at numerous locations. Penalties were levied to ensure compliance with CAQM norms.”

With construction a significant contributor to air pollution in Delhi, authorities aim to curb violations and ensure adherence to dust control measures across the city.

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