CAQM issues pre-emptive air pollution curbs in Delhi-NCR
The Commission for Air Quality Management has mandated a 15-day ban on construction and a 50 per cent work-from-home rule.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued a 15-day ban on outdoor construction and dust-generating demolition activities in Delhi and five NCR districts. According to The Indian Express, the order also includes a 50 per cent work-from-home mandate for these areas.
The CAQM stated these are precautionary and anticipatory measures taken under Section 12 of the CAQM Act, 2021. These curbs are being implemented ahead of Delhi’s 10-point winter pollution plan, which begins on Sunday.
Officials said the decision followed an assessment of meteorological factors, the upcoming Diwali festival, and paddy stubble burning. Currently, around 55-60 per cent of paddy harvesting is complete in Punjab and 50 per cent in Haryana.
Air quality in the region is expected to worsen through the coming week. While the air quality index was 'Satisfactory' in late October due to rain, it reached 'Moderate' on Saturday and is expected to turn 'Poor' by November 2.
A CAQM official said that for the first time, pre-emptive actions have been tried. Chief Secretaries will need to coordinate with district magistrates and municipal commissioners to enforce the construction ban and work-from-home mandate.