Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa labeled the movement of polluting vehicles in the city as a “crime” and confirmed the continuation of the “No PUC, No Fuel” campaign post the relaxation of anti-pollution measures under GRAP-IV. Emphasizing the need for all city vehicles to undergo pollution checks, Sirsa highlighted vehicular emissions as a major pollution source.
The Minister addressed concerns regarding irregularities at Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) centers and disclosed the suspension and blacklisting of 12 such centers following inspections. He stressed a zero-tolerance approach towards any misconduct associated with PUCC, asserting that aiding the movement of polluting vehicles is tantamount to a “crime.”
Sirsa unveiled plans for a new e-waste handling plant spanning 11 acres in northwest Delhi’s Holambi Kalan. Additionally, the proposal to rejuvenate 160 water bodies with a budget of Rs 100 crore aims to mitigate pollution levels. The government’s approval for establishing four automatic testing stations for commercial vehicles is set to enhance monitoring of vehicles entering from other states.
The Minister also mentioned the modification of an order mandating high-rise buildings to install anti-smog guns, with an allowance for mist dispensers proven effective at ITO. Notably, the closure of 411 polluting industries and the sealing of nearly 400 units by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee and Municipal Corporation of Delhi, respectively, have been enforced. Despite Western Disturbances affecting Delhi’s air quality adversely, the government is actively implementing measures to combat the current poor air conditions.
