118 construction firms told to cease work in Gurugram

GURUGRAM: Taking cognisance of the deadly smog prevailing in Gurugram, the Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) has served notices to 118 builders to immediately stop all construction work.

The National Green Tribunal had earlier directed that all construction activities taking place in Delhi-NCR must be stopped till November 18, as air quality levels have reached hazardous levels.

DTCP has stated categorically that erring builders will be dealt with firmly.

Besides imposition of hefty fine, the licence of the construction firm may also be cancelled.

Leeway, however, has been provided to the finishing works that does not produce dust.

Stringent measures have been undertaken by the district administration to tackle the worsening air pollution in Gurugram.

To begin with, the Deputy Commissioner has directed that all government and private schools will be closed until Monday.

There have also been strict orders to shut down all brick kilns, stone crushers and hot mix plants. Usage of coal and fire woods has also been banned in open eateries and hotels.

The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram has also been asked to ensure mechanised sweeping and sprinkling of water, both during the day and at night, all over the Millennium City to prevent dust pollution.

Various private tankers that were contracted by the Corporation were seen sprinkling water on the roads. Citizen participation has also been encouraged, with resident welfare associations and house owners told to provide electric heaters to security staff, so as to dissuade them from

burning wood and leaves out in the open.