New Delhi [India], November 21 (ANI): The Delhi government is relentlessly advancing its scientifically designed Winter Action Plan, with a firm focus on curbing pollution at its sources through robust ground interventions under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.

As part of these efforts, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has intensified enforcement of its comprehensive guidelines to mitigate dust pollution arising from road cutting and construction activities.

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated, 'Dust generated from road cutting and construction is a significant contributor to harmful PM 2.5 levels in our air. Strict compliance with the dust mitigation guidelines is non-negotiable as we work to protect the health of our citizens and ensure cleaner air for Delhi.'

DPCC's guidelines require executing agencies and contractors to implement key dust control measures, including: Erecting dust/wind barriers of at least 2 meters in height along road cutting stretches wider than 18 meters. Covering and keeping loose soil and construction debris moist to prevent air-borne dust. Using tarpaulin or green nets to cover stored material and ensuring transport vehicles are fully covered. Storing all construction waste only at designated sites and not on public roads. Regular sprinkling of water on unpaved or loose soil areas to suppress dust. Safety gear and dust masks for all workers. Clear signage on road restoration timelines and diversions and only PUC-certified vehicles permitted for hauling material.

Sirsa further stressed, 'There will be zero tolerance for non-compliance. Environmental compensation of up to Rs 5 lakh will be levied on agencies found violating these dust mitigation norms. Thousands of enforcement personnel are on the ground, conducting inspections and keeping a close check on activities.'

The Delhi government has given directions to all executing agencies, ground officers, and contractors to adhere strictly to the DPCC guidelines and contribute to the collective fight against air pollution.

Sirsa reiterated, 'Our teams are actively monitoring all sites, and any breaches will attract prompt penalties. We expect nothing less than full cooperation from every stakeholder involved in road work.'

For citizens, the Minister advised, 'People of Delhi have a vital role to play, adopt best practices, avoid any open burning or waste fires, and remain vigilant for any violations.'

The minister further highlighted that the enforcement teams have ensured the provision of 305 community kitchens, supplying cooked food to over 5,000 individuals across Delhi to prevent any instances of biomass burning by construction workers, truck drivers and labourers stationed at project sites.

Additionally, as part of the dust-control drive, an average of 3,000 km of roads are being mechanically swept every day, significantly reducing loose dust on major corridors. At Delhi's borders, polluting interstate trucks are being strictly checked and stopped, preventing non-compliant heavy vehicles from entering the city.

Simultaneously, stringent action is being taken against all construction and demolition sites found causing dust or running air-polluting activities, ensuring full compliance with Delhi's dust mitigation norms. Over 50 such projects have so far been shut across Delhi.

The Delhi government continues to implement systemic changes and innovative interventions to comprehensively tackle air pollution in the city. (ANI)