MCG Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum for Gurgaon Road Repairs to Combat Dust Pollution
In a decisive move to tackle the city's deteriorating air quality, the Municipal Corporation of Gurgaon (MCG) has directed the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) to repair all potholes on city roads within a strict 48-hour timeframe. This urgent directive was issued during a high-level meeting chaired by MCG Commissioner Pradeep Dahiya on Monday, which focused on reviewing and accelerating the action plan for air pollution control.
Comprehensive Strategy to Reduce Particulate Matter
The civic body has set an ambitious target to reduce particulate matter levels by 15 to 20% by the year 2026. To achieve this, officials from various departments, including the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB), were instructed to take immediate action against multiple pollution sources. Key measures discussed include:
- Cracking Down on Illegal Activities: HSPCB officials were ordered to target illegal tyre recycling units, polluting industries, and construction activities that violate the Environment Protection Act of 1986.
- Industrial Compliance: Authorities will inspect industries operating without mandatory clearances, such as consent to establish and consent to operate, with non-compliant units facing shutdowns.
- Traffic Management: The traffic police were directed to identify major congestion points and toll plazas and prepare a detailed decongestion plan. Additionally, officials will review parking site usage and remove encroachments.
Enhanced Civic Infrastructure and Green Initiatives
Commissioner Dahiya emphasized that the city has adopted a multi-dimensional strategy for air pollution control, integrating infrastructure improvements with environmental initiatives. "A target has been set to reduce pollution levels in 2026 through action against illegal activities, traffic management, green initiatives, waste management, and public participation. Directions have been issued to all departments to ensure coordinated implementation," he stated.
Further directives from the meeting include:
- Expediting the process of hiring 30 truck-mounted anti-smog guns on rent.
- Setting a target of 100% end-to-end road paving by October 2027.
- Strengthening the dust-free road campaign through increased mechanized road sweeping and improved management of construction and demolition waste.
- Involving women self-help groups in waste collection and segregation, with plans to prepare a request for proposal for a decentralized waste management system.
Water Body Restoration and Urban Greening
Officials reported that 55 out of 74 ponds in the municipal area have already been developed. The remaining ponds will be cleaned and deepened before the monsoon season to enhance water retention and reduce dust. Departments were also tasked with preparing plantation plans that focus on indigenous species to boost green cover and improve air quality.
Public Awareness and Future Planning
The corporation plans to launch a citywide awareness campaign in collaboration with resident welfare associations, industry groups, and universities. This initiative aims to promote waste segregation, circular economy practices, and sustainable packaging among citizens.
Looking ahead, officials from key departments, including PWD, HSVP, NHAI, the engineering wing, Swachh Bharat Mission, and the horticulture department, were instructed to submit phased action plans for the periods 2025-26, 2026-27, and 2027-28. These plans will outline progressive steps toward achieving long-term pollution reduction goals.
Transport and Enforcement Upgrades
The meeting also highlighted advancements in traffic management, noting that an automated challan system based on automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) is now operational under the integrated traffic management system implemented through the smart cities mission. On public transport, officials from GMCBL revealed that the city requires around 1,000 buses, but only 150 are currently operational. "A phased expansion plan is being prepared in line with guidelines of the ministry of housing and urban affairs," an official said. A proposal to add 200 buses was discussed by the high power purchase committee, with the new buses expected by the end of April.
This comprehensive approach underscores MCG's commitment to transforming Gurgaon's urban environment through coordinated efforts across multiple sectors, aiming for a cleaner, healthier city by 2026.
