The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has issued 879 fines totaling INR 36.7 lakh under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to curb pollution. Violations include 566 fines for dust control failures at small construction sites and INR 6 lakh for illegal construction waste dumping. Additionally, 331 fines for solid waste dumping (INR 5.4 lakh), 259 for single-use plastic (INR 2.18 lakh), and 21 for waste burning (INR 1.05 lakh) were imposed. MCG Commissioner Ashok Kumar Garg urged community involvement, while measures like anti-smog guns and mechanical road sweeping aim to improve air quality. Sustainable practices and resident participation are essential for lasting environmental change.
Gurugram, a city facing significant air quality challenges, has stepped up its efforts to combat environmental violations under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Since the plan's implementation, the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has issued 879 fines, totaling INR 36.7 lakh, for various infractions related to pollution control and waste management.
A significant portion of these penalties, 566 in total, were directed at construction sites smaller than 500 square meters. These sites failed to adhere to dust control measures, which are crucial for minimizing particulate matter that contributes to poor air quality. Additionally, the MCG has imposed fines of INR 6 lakh for the illegal dumping of construction waste, highlighting ongoing challenges in managing construction activities in the city.
Illegal dumping of solid waste has emerged as a major concern, with 331 fines issued for this violation, amounting to INR 5.4 lakh. This issue underscores the need for better waste management practices among residents and businesses alike. Furthermore, the MCG has penalized 259 instances of single-use plastic usage, resulting in fines of INR 2.18 lakh, and 21 fines totaling INR 1.05 lakh for waste burning, which is strictly prohibited under GRAP.
MCG Commissioner Ashok Kumar Garg emphasized the importance of community involvement in environmental protection. He highlighted that maintaining a clean environment is crucial for public health and well-being, and everyone has a role to play in safeguarding it. He warned that violations such as waste burning, using single-use plastics, and transporting uncovered debris would result in penalties and potential legal consequences.
The GRAP framework is activated based on the Air Quality Index (AQI), which measures pollution levels. The plan has four stages: Stage 1 is triggered when the AQI reaches 201-300, Stage 2 for 301-400, Stage 3 for 401-500, and Stage 4 for AQI above 500. These stages dictate specific actions to reduce pollution, including restrictions on construction activities and vehicle use.
To further combat air pollution, the MCG has implemented several measures. Anti-smog guns have been deployed to spray treated water on roads and trees, helping to settle dust and improve air quality. Additionally, the MCG has increased mechanical road sweeping during nighttime hours to minimize dust accumulation.
While these measures are a step in the right direction, experts believe that long-term solutions are necessary to address the root causes of pollution in Gurugram. Urban planners and environmentalists advocate for more sustainable practices, such as increasing green spaces, enhancing public transportation, and promoting waste segregation at the source.
Residents are also encouraged to participate in local clean-up drives and adopt sustainable habits, such as reducing plastic use and properly disposing of waste. Community engagement is vital in fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
As Gurugram continues to grapple with air quality issues, the MCG's enforcement of GRAP serves as a reminder of the collective effort required to protect the environment. With ongoing collaboration between authorities and residents, there is hope for a cleaner and healthier future for the city.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
