India, Aug. 22 -- The Delhi government is stepping up its winter anti-pollution drive, announcing a 42-day blanket ban on construction activities from December 10 to January 20 while taking action against industrial units violating environmental norms. The government said 106 of the 2,011 industrial units inspected between January and July were found non-compliant with environmental standards, with compensation imposed on 44 units and closure orders issued against 33. "Construction will be completely banned from December 10 to January 20. If you spot any violation, inform MCD, your MLA, or me directly," Gupta said.
She said construction had continued at some sites last winter despite GRAP restrictions. "Last time, even under GRAP, some construction continued behind covers," she said. This winter, construction sites measuring over 500 square metres will be monitored through the Delhi government's Dust Portal 2.0 and AI-enabled cameras. Alerts will reach the Control and Command Centre, following which notices, warnings and fines will be issued. Launched in July, Dust Portal 2.0 uses GIS mapping, 360-degree PTZ cameras, PM10 and PM2.5 sensors and AI-based analytics to track construction and demolition sites. It also offers district-wise pollution dashboards, hotspot analysis and digital enforcement notices.
The government has simultaneously stepped up action against industrial pollution. Between January and July 2026, 2,011 industrial units were inspected, with 106 found non-compliant with environmental norms. Of these, 78 were operating without a valid Consent to Operate (CTO) from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee. Gupta said the government's objective is to control pollution at its source rather than merely penalise offenders. "Our objective is not merely to take action, but to ensure effective control over pollution at its source," she said. She added, "Industries that comply with environmental regulations will receive support and facilitation, but strict action will continue against those that pollute Delhi's air." The anti-pollution drive also covers road dust, vehicular emissions, waste burning and illegal dumping. Gupta urged citizens to report violations through the Green Delhi App or MCD 311 App, stressing that public participation is essential in identifying polluters and ensuring timely action.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.