Gurugram, Faridabad choke as AQI crosses 400

Unchecked bursting of crackers, coupled with reported instances of stubble burning across Haryana and Punjab, wrapped Gurugram and Faridabad in toxic smog on Tuesday. Many parts of the twin NCR cities reported 'severe' AQI crossing 400.

The AQI of Gurugram was 469 in many areas, and PM2.5 and PM10 were several times more than the normal limit. Despite the Supreme Court order to ensure the use of only green crackers, and that too within a stipulated time, the local authorities failed to implement the orders.

The air quality, which started depleting since evening, was the worst on Tuesday morning. Over 150 people had reportedly approached local hospitals with breathing difficulties and ophthalmic irritation. Local RWAs have issued an advisory to senior citizens and children to stay indoors. Many societies have starting sprinkling water while the administration has ordered the strict implementation of GRAP 2 postulates.

“The local pollution control board authorities have been asked to conduct hourly checks and penalise defaulters. Zero tolerance is being observed towards any polluting activity, be it burning of waste or non-management of construction dust,” said DC Ajay Kumar.

“The city is choking and it’s not a new thing. Every year, they come up with plans to ensure there is no smog but fail. Waste is being burnt and construction sites are flouting dust norms. The pollution control body remains toothless and the state government is least bothered,” claimed Ruchika Sethi from the Citizens for Clean Air Bharat.

The Municipal Corporation Gurugram said 10 Integrated anti-smog gun machines were being purchased with funds provided by the CPCB, and would soon be operational in the city. The cleaning of main roads was also being mechanised to reduce dust and pollution.