Advertisement
When should a housing society in Mumbai start considering re...
From GST on JDAs to SEBI’s REIT reclassification and the S...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
The Bhubaneswar-Cuttack urban region has introduced strict construction time restrictions to tackle worsening air pollution, banning all construction activity from 6 PM to 10 AM. The decision aims to reduce dust generation and related particulate pollution during peak night and early-morning hours when air quality tends to deteriorate. Daytime work will be allowed during the prescribed hours with enforcement measures in place, and authorities have warned of penalties for violations. The ban applies to all building and infrastructure works, with exemptions only for essential emergency services. The move reflects growing concern over air quality in the twin cities and is part of a broader set of pollution control measures designed to protect public health and ensure cleaner urban living conditions.
In a significant environmental move to tackle deteriorating air quality, authorities in the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack metropolitan region have imposed a time-based ban on construction activities, prohibiting work between 6 PM and 10 AM. The restriction is aimed at reducing dust and particulate emissions from building sites, which contribute significantly to pollution levels especially during night and early morning hours when atmospheric conditions tend to trap pollutants. Advertisement
Under the new directive, all construction and related works within the twin-city limits must cease operations after 6 PM and can only resume from 10 AM the following day. The policy covers building construction, earthmoving, demolition, roadwork and other site activities that generate dust and emissions. Officials have emphasised that the measure will be strictly enforced, and project proponents who fail to comply risk penalties, including fines and stoppage orders.
The rationale behind the timing restriction is rooted in air quality science. During late evening and early morning, temperature inversion and reduced wind speeds can exacerbate pollutant accumulation near ground level, leading to higher concentrations of PM2.5 and other harmful particles. By curbing construction activity during these hours, authorities aim to lower localized dust emissions and improve overall air quality for residents.
Enforcement teams comprising municipal officials, pollution control boards and law enforcement personnel have been mobilised to monitor compliance across the region. Notices have been issued to builders, contractors and developers outlining the dos and don'ts under the new regulation, along with the penalties applicable for violations. Emergency and essential works may be granted special exemptions, subject to prior approval.
The ban has drawn reactions from various stakeholders. Environmental advocates and health experts have welcomed the step as a positive move toward cleaner air and a healthier living environment. They noted that construction dust contributes significantly to respiratory ailments, particularly among children, the elderly and vulnerable populations.
Developers and contractors, while acknowledging the intent behind the policy, have expressed concerns about potential impacts on project schedules and costs. Industry representatives have sought clarity on enforcement mechanisms and requested collaborative planning to minimise disruptions.
City administrators have assured that the restriction is part of a broader strategy to manage pollution, which also includes increased green cover, dust suppression measures, stricter vehicular emissions checks and public awareness campaigns. They reiterated that protecting public health and improving urban air quality remain top priorities.
As the ban takes effect, residents and businesses in the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack area will be watching closely to see how the measure influences air quality trends and whether it becomes a model for other cities grappling with construction-related pollution challenges.
5th Jun, 2025
25th May, 2023
11th May, 2023
27th Apr, 2023
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
