Bhubaneswar: Violators indulging in open burning in Bhubaneswar will now face an on-the-spot fine of ₹5,000, as the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) steps up enforcement to curb rising air pollution levels in the city under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
The decision was taken at a meeting on Air Quality Management of Bhubaneswar City, held recently, under the chairmanship of the Commissioner, BMC. Following the meeting, directions have been issued to all Zonal Commissioners (in charge) to strictly implement a series of pollution control measures across their respective zones.
Crackdown on Open Burning and Polluting Practices
As part of the intensified drive, Zonal Commissioners have been instructed to identify defaulters involved in open burning of waste or materials and impose a spot fine of ₹5,000 for each violation. Shops found violating the norms may face closure, and all commercial establishments have been directed to use clean sources of cooking fuel.
Action Against Coal- and Wood-Fired Chullahs
BMC will also take strict action, including closure, against hotels and roadside eateries using coal-based or wood-fired chullahs. The enforcement drive will initially begin from the Lingaraj Temple area and will later be extended to all parts of Bhubaneswar.
Measures at Bus Depots and Public Transport Facilities
The Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has been directed to ensure regular water sprinkling at bus depots and bus stands to control dust pollution. In addition, daily cleaning and washing of buses has been made mandatory, with Zonal Commissioners monitoring compliance.
Clean Fuel for Mid-Day Meal Programme
Cooking under the Mid-Day Meal Programme in schools must be carried out only through clean fuel, and Zonal Commissioners have been asked to strictly enforce this directive.
Compliance by Ready Mix Plants
Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) plants have been directed to strictly follow State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) guidelines, including adoption of air pollution prevention measures such as sprinkling of water and washing of vehicles to reduce dust emissions.
Focus on Public Health
BMC officials stated that the measures aim to address deteriorating air quality and protect public health, with special emphasis on strict enforcement at the zonal level.
