The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is ramping up measures to combat pollution from construction sites despite implementing Stages III and IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). By November 25, MCD inspected over 5,500 sites, finding 420 non-compliant with dust control regulations. Among smaller sites, 367 did not adhere to mitigation standards, resulting in several penalties and closure notices. For larger sites, 53 were found violated guidelines, with fines imposed and closure notice issued to one project. MCD has deployed 372 surveillance teams to enforce compliance, aiming to reduce air pollution linked to construction activities across the city.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is intensifying efforts to address pollution violations at construction sites, despite the implementation of Stage III and IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). As of November 25, MCD has inspected over 5,500 construction sites this month, identifying 420 sites that are not compliant with dust control requirements.
Out of the 367 sites measuring less than 500 square meters, many failed to apply the necessary dust mitigation measures. Closure notices were issued to three sites, while others faced environmental compensation fees due to violations.
For sites larger than 500 square meters, 53 were found to be non-compliant or unregistered. One of these received a closure notice, with the others required to pay environmental compensation charges.
An MCD official stated they examined 4,181 construction and demolition sites under the 500 square meter category and identified violations at over 350 locations. Additionally, they inspected 1,368 plots larger than 500 square meters, discovering 53 sites that violated CAQM guidelines or failed to follow regulations, leading to imposed environmental compensation.
In contrast, between April and October, the MCD penalized 1,372 construction and demolition sites for GRAP violations, with fines totaling INR 2.7 crore, of which INR 16.8 lakh has been collected.
Stage III of GRAP prohibits activities that generate dust or contribute to air pollution, including excavation, drilling, demolition, and various construction tasks. Stage IV further halts public project work, such as the construction of highways, roads, and power transmission facilities.
To enforce these regulations, the MCD has established 372 surveillance teams comprising 1,295 officers. These teams monitor open burning, illegal dumping of construction waste, compliance with norms at construction sites, and dust levels on roads.
As air quality continues to be a pressing issue in Delhi, the MCD's proactive measures represent a crucial step toward enforcing compliance at construction sites. By increasing inspections and imposing penalties, the corporation aims not only to enforce regulations but also to promote cleaner construction practices. These efforts are vital for safeguarding public health and improving the city's environmental quality, emphasizing the importance of accountability and sustainable development amid ongoing urban growth.
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