Gurgaon MCG Commissioner Reviews Air Pollution Control Efforts
In a significant move to combat air pollution, Municipal Corporation of Gurgaon (MCG) Commissioner Pradeep Dahiya chaired a high-level review meeting on Monday. The session focused on assessing and enhancing air pollution control measures across the city, with a strong emphasis on meeting targets outlined by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
Deadlines Set for Agency Integration and Green Initiatives
Commissioner Dahiya issued strict directives to key departments, setting a one-week deadline for the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Public Works Department (PWD), and Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC). These agencies must integrate their operations with the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority's (GMDA) complaint handling system portal to streamline pollution-related grievances.
Additionally, officials were instructed to finalize decisions on the location and technology for a proposed green crematorium by March 20. This initiative aims to reduce emissions from traditional cremation practices, contributing to cleaner air in Gurgaon.
Enforcement Actions and Inter-Departmental Coordination
The meeting, held at the MCG office, saw participation from officials representing various agencies, including NHAI, HSIIDC, GMDA, PWD, the traffic police, and the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB). During the discussions, HSPCB officials reported that 30 industrial units operating without necessary consents had been sealed as part of ongoing enforcement efforts.
Commissioner Dahiya emphasized that controlling air pollution is a shared responsibility among all departments. He stressed the importance of better coordination to ensure timely completion of set targets, which is crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy environment in the city.
Road Works and Green Belt Projects to Curb Dust Pollution
To address dust pollution, Dahiya directed officials to improve the quality and pace of ongoing road improvement projects. He highlighted the need for end-to-end execution of these works to minimize dust generation, a major contributor to air quality degradation.
Officials from GMDA provided updates on a green belt project, where work is underway to lower approximately 30 kilometers of green belt areas below the road surface level. This project is targeted for completion before the monsoon season to support plantation efforts, enhance rainwater recharge, and aid in dust control.
Promoting Electric Vehicles Under New CAQM Guidelines
The meeting also delved into plans to establish electric vehicle (EV) charging and battery swapping stations within a 3 square kilometer area, in line with new CAQM guidelines. This initiative is designed to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, thereby helping to reduce vehicular emissions and combat pollution in Gurgaon.
Commissioner Dahiya reiterated that effective pollution control requires seamless collaboration among all stakeholders. By setting clear deadlines and promoting innovative solutions, the MCG aims to foster a sustainable and pollution-free urban environment for residents.
