Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa warns of rising pollution levels amid worsening weather conditions. With GRAP-4 in force, the government plans strict action against illegal construction and polluting factories to protect public health.
The government's strict warning on increasing pollution in Delhi
New Delhi: Delhi Government Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa has expressed serious concern over the continuously worsening air pollution in the capital. He has clarified that the pollution level may become more dangerous in the coming days, especially on Sunday.
According to the forecast of the Meteorological Department, the situation may worsen due to the activation of Western Disturbance, due to which Delhiites need to be extra cautious.
According to the minister, there will be a change in the weather due to the influence of western disturbance from Saturday evening. On Sunday, due to low wind speed and increased moisture in the atmosphere, pollutants may remain trapped near the ground.
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This will have a direct impact on the Air Quality Index (AQI), and it may reach the 'severe' category. Grap-4 was implemented, yet there is resentment over negligence.
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Manjinder Singh Sirsa said that GRAP-4 (Graded Response Action Plan) is already implemented in Delhi, under which there are strict restrictions on works like construction and demolition. Despite this, complaints about continuing construction work are being received from many areas.
Describing it as serious negligence, the minister said that those violating the rules will not be spared under any circumstances.
The minister said in clear words that strict action will be taken against the buildings of those who are carrying out construction work despite GRP-4. Along with this, local JEs (Junior Engineers) and XENs (Executive Engineers) have also been warned that if any violation of rules is found in their area, they will be held responsible and legal action will be taken against them.
Sirsa said that the government has conducted a comprehensive survey of factories causing pollution. A special campaign will be launched against these factories from Sunday. He clarified that whether the factory is in an authorized area or unauthorized, if it is found causing pollution, it will be sealed and strict action will be taken against the owners.
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The minister bluntly said that no compromise will be made with the health of the people of Delhi. He appealed to the factory owners to immediately improve their pollution standards; otherwise, they may have to face serious legal and financial consequences. The government aims to completely control the sources of pollution in the capital.
