New Delhi: The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has instituted a new requirement mandating that all construction and demolition projects register on the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) dust portal prior to the approval of building plans.
In a directive from the DPCC, it has been made clear that no building plan sanctions will be granted without this essential registration. This initiative aims to enhance dust control measures and combat air pollution in the city.
Furthermore, the MCD has been tasked with ensuring that these environmental safeguards are integrated into the building plan approval process. Any violations of these regulations will result in the denial or cancellation of project permissions.
According to an official communication, the MCD is also required to synchronize the DPCC dust portal with its building layout plan approval system, facilitating seamless monitoring and compliance.
“All ongoing and upcoming projects that meet the specified area threshold must upload a self-declaration on the dust portal every fortnight,” stated the DPCC communication.
Additionally, the new regulations include mandatory provisions for 360-degree pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) video surveillance, as well as the installation of low-cost Particulate Matter (PM) sensors at construction sites.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enforce stringent dust mitigation norms under the guidance of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). Construction dust has been identified as a significant contributor to PM10 and PM2.5 levels in the capital’s air quality.
Contractors are required to adhere to a comprehensive 14-point dust control protocol, which includes the use of anti-smog guns, water sprinkling, wind barricading, proper covering of debris and vehicles, and the prompt disposal of waste materials. Additionally, a display board featuring the DPCC portal registration ID will be mandatory at each construction site.
This proactive approach underscores the MCD’s commitment to improving air quality and ensuring a healthier environment for all residents of Delhi.