Delhi air quality improves, construction curbs lifted

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Monday lifted the restrictions on construction and demolition activities in Delhi-NCR in view of an improvement in air quality and meteorological forecast.

The central air quality panel had on Friday allowed authorities in Delhi-NCR to resume physical classes for students in classes 6 and above, colleges and other educational institutions with immediate effect.

It had also said that physical classes for students up to class 5 can begin from December 27.

"The CAQM considering the improvement in air quality and meteorological forecast allows the resumption of C&D activities in NCR and also the entry of trucks into Delhi with immediate effect," the panel tweeted on Monday.

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Monday also said the Delhi government has issued directions allowing the resumption of construction and demolition activities and the entry of trucks into the national capital.

He asked construction agencies to comply with the 14-point guidelines to prevent dust pollution at their sites and said strict action will be taken in case of any violation.

"We have allowed construction and demolition activities from today (Monday)... However, I appeal to all agencies engaged in such work not to be complacent or take undue advantage of the permission," Rai told reporters.

The CAQM panel noted that the air quality index in Delhi has improved from the 'very poor' category and has consistently been in the 'poor' category for the last three days.

On Friday, the central air quality panel had allowed authorities in Delhi-NCR to resume physical classes for students in Class 6 and above, colleges and other educational institutions with immediate effect.

It had also said that physical classes for students up to Class 5 can begin from December 27.