Ban on diesel gensets lifted in Delhi-NCR

Pradeep Sharma

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, March 9

In a significant order having implications for several districts of the state, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has lifted the ban on the use of diesel generator sets.

Shiv Das Meena, CPCB Chairman, in his order said: “Air quality in the Delhi-NCR is expected to improve in the coming days because of improved ventilation conditions. Based on this forecast, the CPCB has decided to lift the ban on the use of diesel gensets in the Delhi-NCR.”

The Supreme Court-mandated Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA), on the advice of the task force on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), had banned the use of diesel generator sets in the Delhi-NCR with effect from October 15, 2020.

Now, on the recommendations of the Commission on Air Quality Management in the NCR and Adjoining Areas (which replaced the EPCA last year), the CPCB has lifted the ban. This, however, comes with strict compliance with the pollution control norms.

State pollution control boards in the NCR have been asked to ensure that large construction sites adhere to the prescribed guidelines and take measures for dust management.

The state boards have also been asked to clear waste, including plastic and municipal solid waste, dumped on the open land and by the roadside. Besides, they have been told to enforce pollution control regulations in brick-kilns and industries.

The boards will also start mechanised sweeping of roads and sprinkle water on unpaved ones.