879 challans for GRAP violations in 6 weeks

The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has imposed a total fine of Rs 36.70 lakh on 879 individuals and firms over the past six weeks for violating regulations under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), implemented by the Central Air Quality Management Commission.

MCG Commissioner Ashok Kumar Garg said the fines include: 21 challans for burning waste or garbage, 39 for burning coal or wood, 202 for construction and demolition activities, 27 for illegal dumping of C&D waste, 331 for illegal dumping of garbage and 259 for using single-use plastic.

To enforce these regulations, Garg has set up 35 teams at the ward level to monitor GRAP violations. These teams conduct regular inspections and take measures to control dust, such as sprinkling water on roads and roadside trees. In addition, STP-purified water is being used to spray roads and trees to help reduce pollution.

The MCG has deployed 10 anti-smog guns and 18 water tankers across various roads to combat pollution. Many builders in the area are also using anti-smog guns to control pollution at construction sites. Furthermore, 16 mechanised sweeping machines are actively cleaning main roads to help improve air quality.