New Delhi: Despite improvements in the toxic air of the capital, strict adherence to the first and second phases of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will continue. Environment Minister Gopal Rai shared this information after a review meeting with the Environment Department and DPCC officials on Wednesday. During the meeting, the Environment Minister instructed a special focus on identified hotspots and regular inspections of construction sites. He also advised expeditious water spraying in various areas of Delhi.

It’s worth noting that the Central Pollution Control Board removed the third phase of GRAP from Delhi-NCR on Tuesday due to the decrease in pollution levels. All teams, including the Anti-Dust Campaign Team, Anti-Open Burning Campaign Team, and the PUC checking teams, will work collaboratively to combat pollution. Minister Gopal Rai emphasized continuous monitoring and stated that orders have been issued to strictly enforce all rules in designated hotspots.

Minister Rai further disclosed that the Environment Ministry is closely monitoring construction projects with an area of 500 square meters or more, mandating registration on the web portal. The DPCC has been directed to conduct special campaigns for compliance. Compliance with the 14 construction-related rules is mandatory at all construction sites, and strict actions will be taken by the teams in case of non-compliance. A total of 591 teams have been deployed for this purpose.

Moreover, anti-smog gun deployment and adherence to related regulations are mandated on C&D construction sites. Minister Gopal Rai highlighted the need for collective efforts to address pollution and urged citizens to contribute to maintaining air quality within permissible limits. The focus remains on sustained vigilance and robust enforcement of measures to counteract pollution effectively.

Check here for the latest updates in Hindi!