Delhi has taken a decisive step to curb rising air pollution by mandating all construction and demolition projects to register on the Delhi Pollution Control Committee’s (DPCC) Dust Pollution Control and Self-Assessment Portal before securing building plan approvals.
This regulatory measure, enforced by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), aims to integrate robust environmental safeguards directly into the city’s construction approval process, signalling a significant move towards sustainable urban development. Under this directive, no building sanction will be granted without proof of registration on the dust control portal, ensuring that all projects are aligned with stringent air quality norms. The MCD has been tasked with integrating the DPCC’s dust portal with its own building plan approval system, facilitating seamless oversight and compliance monitoring. Large projects exceeding defined area thresholds must submit fortnightly self-declarations confirming adherence to dust mitigation practices.
Complementing these registration requirements, the DPCC has mandated the installation of 360-degree pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) video surveillance systems and affordable Particulate Matter (PM) sensors on construction sites. These technologies are critical for real-time monitoring, enabling authorities to verify compliance with an extensive 14-point dust control protocol. This protocol includes anti-smog gun usage, frequent water sprinkling, effective wind barriers, secure covering of debris and vehicles, and timely waste disposal. Construction sites must also display their DPCC portal registration ID prominently, promoting transparency. This initiative falls under the broader ambit of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which has been intensifying efforts to mitigate dust pollution—a known contributor to the hazardous PM10 and PM2.5 particulate levels that frequently spike in Delhi’s atmosphere. The city’s construction sector has long been recognised as a significant source of airborne particulates, impacting public health and environmental quality.
By embedding dust control measures into the very framework of construction approvals, Delhi is adopting a proactive, technology-driven approach to tackle air pollution. The integration of digital monitoring tools with regulatory oversight marks a pivotal shift from reactive enforcement to real-time compliance. Such a model not only enhances accountability but also sets a benchmark for other metropolitan areas facing similar challenges. Moreover, the policy aligns with Delhi’s broader sustainability goals, supporting efforts to create a cleaner, greener, and more equitable urban environment. It also addresses the human dimension of air pollution, aiming to protect vulnerable populations who bear the brunt of toxic air quality.
As Delhi continues to grapple with seasonal pollution crises, these rigorous dust control mandates exemplify a pragmatic, enforceable solution that balances developmental imperatives with environmental responsibility. While enforcement remains a challenge, the adoption of cutting-edge monitoring technologies and integrated systems reflects a commendable commitment to sustainable urban governance.
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