New Delhi, Dec 22 (UNI) Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa on Monday said that the national capital is witnessing the impact of a western disturbance, resulting in adverse weather conditions, while stringent pollution control measures have begun to show positive results.
Addressing a press conference on pollution, Sirsa said the implementation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-IV restrictions, along with other curbs, has contributed to visible improvement in air quality.
He said that following the enforcement of the “No PUC, No Fuel” rule, as many as 2,12,132 Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates have been issued across Delhi.
Around 10,000 vehicles failed the PUC test initially, after which vehicle owners got their vehicles repaired and retested, he added.
The minister said action against polluting factories has been intensified. “If any factory is found causing pollution, it will be sealed immediately. No notices will be issued anymore,” he said, stressing that the government has adopted a zero-tolerance approach.
Sirsa also pointed out that complaints have been received about some private institutions not following work-from-home norms. He said strict action would be taken against private companies if violations are reported.
From Monday onwards, all deputy commissioners of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), in coordination with the District Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), have started the process of sealing unauthorised industries. The minister said Delhi has three categories of industries authorised, regularised and illegal. Illegal industries will be shut down under all circumstances.
Sharing a weather update, Sirsa said that according to information received from the Meteorological Department, weather conditions are expected to improve after Tuesday, which could lead to better AQI levels.
He also said that the Delhi government, in coordination with the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Revenue Department, is working at a fast pace to revive water bodies across the city.
The government aims to restore 50 per cent of water bodies that have remained defunct or disappeared over the years. “Revived water bodies will play a meaningful role in controlling pollution in Delhi,” he said.
Over 2.12 lakh PUC certificates issued after ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ directive: Environment Minister
