LUCKNOW, May 26 -- Uncovered construction and renovation sites across Lucknow continue to fuel dust pollution, inconveniencing commuters and residents while raising concerns over enforcement of civic norms by the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC). A ground visit by Hindustan Times to multiple construction sites found several projects operating without mandatory dust-control measures. Civic guidelines require builders and developers to install green nets and protective coverings around sites to prevent dust from spreading into surrounding areas and roads. During a visit to Gomti Nagar Extension, behind the UP Police headquarters, private developers were found constructing high-rise apartment projects without visible dust-control nets around the structures. A similar situation was observed at another site nearly two kilometres away, where construction activities continued without adequate arrangements to contain dust. Residents said the problem worsens during peak traffic hours, as moving vehicles lift loose dust particles from roads and construction sites, affecting visibility and posing health concerns. Municipal commissioner Gaurav Kumar said the LMC has been conducting regular enforcement drives through executive engineers and field officials to identify violations. He said penalties are imposed on builders carrying out construction without dust-control arrangements, as well as on those involved in bio-waste burning. According to LMC records, the civic body imposed penalties worth nearly Rs 46 lakh during the previous financial year. In the current financial year, which has completed nearly two months, authorities have already collected around Rs 8 lakh in fines from violators. However, residents claimed violations continue in several areas, including Khargapur, Ahimamau, Gomti Nagar Extension, Malhaur and Rajajipuram. LMC environmental engineer Sanjeev Pradhan said six water-sprinkling vehicles are operating across the city to reduce dust pollution. Residents, however, alleged that these vehicles mostly operate in VIP and central areas, while several outer localities receive little attention. "Multiple construction projects continue in the area without following dust-control norms. Commuting becomes difficult during the daytime due to heavy dust pollution," said Akash Tripathi, a resident of Khargapur. Siddharth, who runs a sweets shop in Gomti Nagar Extension, said he has rarely seen water-sprinkling vehicles operating in the locality and demanded regular anti-dust drives. "We rarely see water-sprinkling vehicles on this stretch."...