Delhi: SDMC halts construction work, issues fines over dust pollution

“The violations observed on a 20,000 sq-metre plot belonging to the school were serious in nature — area of construction and the building was not covered with tarpaulin; construction material stored at site was not fully covered; dust emission was noticed; workers were not provided masks; and wind-breaking walls were not provided around the site,” the official said.

READ | Air quality severe, odd-even could be in the offing

He added that at the Pragati Maidan tunnel construction site, being carried out by L&T, an inspection had found dust pollution — despite a warning being issued earlier. “It was also observed that no action was taken to prevent dust generation, and it was leading to further rise in pollution,” the official said.

ALSO READ | In AIIMS, new procedure to give severe asthma patients respite

SDMC commissioner PK Goel has also ordered that trucks carrying uncovered construction and demolition waste will be challaned, and criminal proceedings will be initiated against repeat offenders. Besides, the South civic body is also taking other steps to contain pollution — including stopping incidents of burning of garbage and leaves by conducting night patrolling in its areas. “The move has been taken because it was found that despite a blanket ban on burning of garbage and leaves, numerous such incidents are being witnessed,” he said.