Delhi authorities impose construction ban to combat winter pollution

Joint enforcement teams from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee are inspecting construction sites across East Delhi to ensure compliance with a ban on dust-generating activities.

These officials monitor areas including Laxmi Nagar and Geeta Colony to verify that contractors have halted outdoor work and properly covered construction materials with green netting or steel sheets.

The Commission for Air Quality Management in Delhi and adjoining areas ordered a 15-day ban on demolition and outdoor construction starting November 5 due to historical peak pollution levels in November. Additionally, the Delhi government's winter action plan prohibited such activities from November 1 until January 31, except for essential public infrastructure projects. These measures aim to reduce dust and other pollutants that contribute to poor air quality during the winter months.

Authorities have used a government app and senior official directions to identify sites for inspection. While some owners initially ignored the rules, officials report that most sites have now stopped work and removed laborers. The teams have issued fines for violations such as dumping waste into drains or burning wood at construction sites. Inspectors noted that compliance improved as people became more aware of the regulations.