In a bid to combat the persistent challenge of air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has taken proactive measures to enforce stringent compliance regulations within the realm of construction and demolition activities. The recent directive issued by CAQM on 20th February, 2024, underscores the critical importance of addressing dust pollution emanating from such projects, which significantly contributes to the levels of PM10 and PM2.5 pollutants in the region, especially during the summer months.
The mandate issued under Direction No. 79 prohibits the issuance of Completion Certificate (CC) or Occupancy Certificate (OC) to projects that have pending “Closure” orders from CAQM. This move aims to hold project proponents accountable for adhering to statutory directives, rules, and guidelines related to dust mitigation. By linking the issuance of CC/OC to compliance with environmental regulations, CAQM seeks to instill a culture of responsible construction practices that prioritize environmental sustainability and public health.
The on-site inspections conducted by the Flying Squads appointed by CAQM have revealed a pressing need for heightened levels of compliance and effectiveness in implementing dust mitigation measures at project sites. Instances where project proponents have continued construction and demolition activities without proper dust abatement measures, despite closure directives and advisories from CAQM, have raised significant concerns regarding environmental protection and regulatory enforcement.
To address these challenges comprehensively, CAQM has extended its advisory to municipal bodies, Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), and all relevant departments and bodies of NCR State Governments and the Government of the National Capital Territory (GNCT) of Delhi. These entities are urged to ensure that building plans, tender notices, contract documents, and agreements in the construction sector align with the prescribed rules, directions, and guidelines for effective dust mitigation during project execution.
The integration of environmental compliance measures into the planning and execution stages of infrastructure development projects is crucial for upholding air quality standards and mitigating the adverse impacts of dust pollution. Regulatory bodies and inspecting agencies are tasked with monitoring the implementation of these measures to guarantee their efficacy and adherence by project stakeholders.
Given that many infrastructure development activities, including construction and demolition projects, are outsourced to various agencies, it is imperative to ensure that these executing entities comply with statutory regulations and guidelines. Municipal bodies and related departments are encouraged to include quality benchmarks related to dust control in contractual agreements, accompanied by provisions for penalties and environmental compensation in cases of non-compliance.
The ongoing monitoring and inspection mechanisms established by CAQM are designed to uphold environmental standards, promote sustainable development practices, and safeguard public health in the NCR. By fostering a culture of accountability and environmental responsibility in the construction sector, CAQM aims to foster a cleaner and healthier living environment for residents of the National Capital Region and its adjoining areas.
