In a proactive move to combat the rising air pollution stemming from ongoing construction projects, Shekhar Singh, the Commissioner of Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), has rolled out a comprehensive set of guidelines. Emphasizing the imperative of strict implementation, these guidelines are designed to address and curb air pollution resulting from construction activities in Pune. Builders are mandated to adhere to these guidelines, with consequences outlined for those who fall short of compliance.
Guidelines to Mitigate Air Pollution from Construction:
- Metal Sheet Enclosures:
- For buildings exceeding 70 meters in height within municipal limits, a 35-foot high metal sheet enclosure is mandatory.
- Plot Size-Specific Requirements:
- Construction projects on plots larger than 1 acre require a 35-foot high metal sheet surrounding the plot.
- Projects on plots smaller than 1 acre necessitate a 25-foot high metal sheet.
- Covering Under Construction Buildings:
- All buildings under construction must have their sides covered with green cloth or jute sheet tarpaulin.
- Demolition Process Protocols:
- During demolition work, construction sites should be covered with green cloth, jute sheet covers, or tarpaulin.
- Water spraying is mandatory during the demolition process.
- Airborne Particle Control:
- Water fogging is required during the loading and unloading of construction materials to mitigate airborne particles contributing to air pollution.
Guidelines for Worker Safety and Environmental Protection:
- Personal Protective Equipment:
- Construction workers and managers are obligated to wear masks, goggles, and helmets.
- Barricading Safety Measures:
- A 25-foot barricade must be erected on the sides of bridges and flyovers under construction.
- All ongoing metro works on the ground must have 25-feet-high barricading.
- Transportation Protocols:
- Vehicles with tracking systems must be used for transporting construction materials.
- Soil, sand, and construction materials should be placed in designated areas.
- Punitive Measures:
- Strict punitive measures will be taken against those who dump construction materials on open spaces and public roads.
- A complete ban on the open burning of garbage is in effect.
These guidelines are applicable to all construction projects, including those managed by various government organizations like MHADA, MIDC, PMRDA, SRA, Indian Railways, and others. The focus on stricter measures underscores the city’s commitment to mitigating air pollution and promoting cleaner construction practices. Builders and stakeholders are expected to adhere to these guidelines, aligning with the city’s dedication to safeguarding the environment and public health.
