Air Quality Monitoring Committee Issues New Directives
As winter approaches, Chandigarh’s Air Quality Monitoring Committee (AQMC) has rolled out fresh pollution control measures to combat rising air pollution during the high-risk season. The meeting, chaired by Saurabh Kumar, Director of Environment (UT Chandigarh), highlighted concerns over the slow execution of earlier plans.
Green Cover Expansion to Fight Pollution
The Municipal Corporation Chandigarh (MCC) and the Department of Forests & Wildlife will speed up Miyawaki plantations in the city. A green buffer zone is also being planned around the dumping ground to reduce pollution and improve the city’s environment.
NCAP Funds to be Used Before Deadline
Departments have been asked to utilise NCAP (National Clean Air Programme) funds for FY 2024–25 before September 30, 2025. If not used, next year’s allocation will be withheld. MCC, which has received ₹7.92 crore each for FY 2024–25 and 2025–26, has been told to speed up projects.
Helpline for Citizens
MCC and the Chandigarh Pollution Control Committee (CPCC) may soon launch a toll-free helpline for citizens to report air pollution complaints.
Enforcement and Crackdown Measures
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Joint teams of CPCC, Traffic Police, and the Transport Department will conduct vehicle emission checks on both government and commercial vehicles.
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A strict firecracker ban during festivals will be enforced by the Deputy Commissioner and police.
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The Construction & Demolition Waste Policy 2022 will be strictly applied at all construction sites to curb dust pollution.
Traffic & Mobility Planning
The Traffic Police will create a special festive traffic management plan. This will include:
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Congestion control and diversions
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Parking management
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Signal optimisation
The State Transport Authority will also audit PUC centres to ensure compliance with CMVR rules.
Dust Control Pilot Project
A pilot project to cut PM10 levels will start on a dust-prone corridor (V1/V2 road). The measures include:
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Road washing with STP-treated water
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Mechanised sweeping
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Shoulder cleaning
CPCC will monitor results and recommend scaling the project citywide.
Key Pollution Control Instructions to Departments
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Cover loose soil with vegetation.
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Enforce dust control at loading/unloading zones.
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Use C&D Waste Plant by-products to cover exposed soil.
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Ensure proper collection & disposal of fallen leaves.
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Deploy anti-smog guns, sprinklers, and road sweepers regularly.
