Delhi’s ₹2 Crore Fines in 17 Days: Crackdown on GRAP Violations Hits Wallets Hard.
New Delhi: The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has taken stringent measures against illegal construction and demolition (C&D) activities, imposing over ₹2 crore in fines within the last 17 days. The move comes as a response to violations of air pollution norms under the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap), particularly during Grap stage 3, which has been in force in Delhi.
In the period between November 2 and 18, MCD issued a total of 1,009 challans related to C&D activities, amounting to ₹2.03 crore in cumulative fines. Additionally, 439 challans were issued for offenses related to the open burning of municipal waste and biomass during the same period.
The municipal authorities conducted on-the-ground inspections and observed ongoing construction work in violation of established norms. Immediate measures were taken to halt the unauthorized construction activities, with fines imposed to deter further violations.
This initiative aligns with Grap’s objectives to address air quality concerns, particularly focusing on curbing dust pollution resulting from construction and demolition activities. MCD is actively engaging in the enforcement of regulations to mitigate the impact of air pollution on the health and well-being of residents.
To combat dust pollution, the Public Works Department (PWD) has contributed to the effort by deploying 60 anti-smog guns in 13 identified hot spots. These areas include Narela, Bawana, Mundka, Wazirpur, Rohini, RK Puram, Okhla, Jahangirpuri, Anand Vihar, Vivek Vihar, Punjabi Bagh, Ashok Vihar, and Dwarka. In addition, a fleet of 195 water sprinklers and jetting machines, along with 30 anti-smog guns, have been strategically engaged to address dust pollution on various roads.
The increased frequency of water sprinkler deployment, especially in identified hot spots, incorporates the use of dust suppressants on dusty roads. This comprehensive approach aims to tackle dust pollution and uphold the standards outlined in Grap to ensure a healthier environment for Delhi’s residents.
