How is Delhi Minister Sirsa Addressing Dust Pollution from Construction Sites?
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Synopsis
Delhi's Environment Minister, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, leads a vital meeting to combat dust pollution from construction sites, emphasizing the need for registration and regulation. His proactive approach aims to ensure cleaner air for the city while maintaining developmental progress.
Key Takeaways
- Comprehensive monitoring of construction sites is essential for pollution control.
- The importance of registration on the DPCC’s Dust Portal cannot be overstated.
- Immediate actions against unregistered sites help ensure compliance.
- Data-sharing among agencies enhances real-time monitoring.
- Continuous improvement in air quality post-Diwali is a positive sign.
New Delhi, Oct 25 (NationPress) On Saturday, Delhi's Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa presided over a crucial meeting at the Delhi Pollution Control Committee to explore strategies aimed at mitigating dust pollution stemming from construction activities.
Following the discussions, Sirsa remarked, “Guided by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, we have initiated a comprehensive grassroots campaign to crack down on illegal and unregistered construction sites. Every construction project must be registered on the DPCC’s Dust Portal to facilitate effective monitoring.”
Officials informed the Minister that 33 field teams have assessed 185 construction locations to date, with aspirations to inspect over 500 sites by October 30.
Notices have been issued to sites that have not yet registered, mandating an immediate suspension of operations until formal registration is accomplished, according to an official statement.
The Minister also evaluated departmental files and operations, instructing officers to swiftly address identified technical deficiencies.
All departments were urged to accelerate field actions, enhance waste management, and enforce strict vigilance against violators. Orders were also given to simplify the registration process on the dust portals.
Sirsa emphasized, “Our aim is not to obstruct development, but to ensure that every source of pollution is effectively managed. Monitoring all construction activities in Delhi is vital for timely intervention against polluters.”
According to DPCC guidelines, unregistered construction sites may incur fines ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, as stated in an official announcement.
The Minister mandated that all unregistered projects immediately halt operations and be penalized according to environmental compensation regulations. During the GRAP phase, any detected violations will incur double penalties.
A significant decision was made to ensure data-sharing among major agencies — MCD, NDMC, DDA, PWD, DMRC, among others — to facilitate real-time, centralized monitoring of construction sites through an integrated portal.
Sirsa directed the establishment of a dedicated monitoring team and an increase in the number of advanced air-quality inspection devices.
“Our primary goal is to keep Delhi's air clean,” stated Sirsa, adding, “In recent days, we have observed a steady improvement in AQI levels following Diwali. The focus now is to build on that progress and make it sustainable.”
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the proactive measures being taken by Delhi's government to address environmental concerns. The focus on registration and monitoring of construction activities reflects a balanced approach, aiming to foster development while ensuring public health and environmental integrity. Such initiatives are crucial for maintaining trust and accountability in governance.
NationPress
25/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the DPCC’s Dust Portal?
The DPCC's Dust Portal serves to ensure that all construction projects are registered for effective monitoring and management of dust pollution.
What penalties do unregistered construction sites face?
Unregistered construction sites can incur fines ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh according to DPCC guidelines.
How many construction sites are being inspected?
Currently, 185 construction sites have been inspected, with a goal of covering over 500 by October 30.
What actions are being taken against unregistered projects?
Unregistered projects are required to halt operations immediately and face penalties under environmental compensation norms.
What is the goal of the air quality monitoring efforts?
The goal is to maintain cleaner air in Delhi and ensure that any sources of pollution are effectively controlled and monitored.
