In a stringent enforcement drive, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has levied fines totalling a substantial Rs 33.95 lakh in just the past week. This action targets construction and demolition sites flouting the strict Stage IV Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) restrictions, activated as the capital grapples with severe air quality.
Week-Long Blitz Uncovers Widespread Violations
Acting on directives from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and the National Green Tribunal (NGT), MCD teams conducted rigorous inspections across all its zones. Officials reported that during this period, 1,792 construction sites were scrutinised. Of these, violations were found at a significant number, leading to the issuance of 771 challans (penalty tickets).
The GRAP IV stage imposes a complete prohibition on all construction and demolition work in the Delhi-NCR region, barring essential projects. The current crackdown is part of a sustained effort, coming after the civic body issued over 900 challans amounting to Rs 1.5 crore in the month of November alone.
Major Penalties Highlight Zero-Tolerance Policy
Among the notable penalties, the MCD slapped a hefty fine of Rs 5 lakh on a builder in Dwarka's Sector 19B. Another site faced significant penalties for its failure to implement mandatory dust mitigation measures. These actions underscore the civic body's hardened stance against polluters during the critical pollution season.
Beyond just imposing fines, MCD officials also used their field visits as an opportunity for awareness. They sensitised workers and contractors on-site about the specific norms under GRAP and the necessary dust-control protocols. Builders and site owners were directed to strictly adhere to the enforceable guidelines for the duration of GRAP-IV.
MCD Vows Continued Vigilance
In an official statement, the MCD reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards such violations. The corporation affirmed that continuous monitoring, surprise inspections, and strict enforcement actions will persist to curb dust pollution from illegal construction activity.
The civic body has also made an appeal for cooperation. It urged citizens and real estate developers to comply with the regulations and work alongside enforcement agencies. This collaboration is framed as essential for the larger interest of public health and for improving the air quality in the national capital, which remains a persistent challenge.
