As the air quality in Pimpri Chinchwad takes a nosedive, the municipal corporation has made a pivotal decision to halt all construction activities within the civic limits until November 19. This proactive move comes in response to a significant surge in the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels over the past two days, as reported by the Safar-Air App. The municipal commissioner’s official order, issued on Monday, enforces an immediate suspension of construction projects.
Urgent Action Amidst Alarming AQI Levels
Citing the data from the Safar-Air App, the order stresses the need for swift actions and preventive measures to curb the worsening air quality. The decision to either continue or ease the construction halt will be contingent upon the AQI levels post-November 19, offering a dynamic approach to address the evolving situation.
Shekhar Singh, the Municipal Commissioner, stated, “Following slightly elevated AQI levels in the city post-Diwali, we have implemented an immediate halt to all construction activities. A comprehensive review is scheduled for November 19 to guide further decisions.”
Monitoring and Intensifying Efforts
To ensure the effective implementation of the order at the city level, the PCMC task force members have been instructed to diligently monitor the situation. Simultaneously, municipal corporation officials will intensify activities such as mechanized road cleaning and water sprinkling to mitigate air pollution in the twin city.
Legal Backing and Duration of Measures
Referring to the High Court Of Judicature At Bombay Civil Appellate Jurisdiction Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation dated November 10, 2023, and the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) outlined by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) in their letter dated October 13, 2023, the order affirms that these measures will remain in effect until November 19.
