Gurugram Chokes: Pollution Crisis Worsens

Gurugram's air quality has plummeted to a 'very poor' category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 302. This deterioration is attributed by residents to persistent issues of unregulated construction and the open burning of waste, which continue to mar the city's pollution control efforts. Despite the grim situation, authorities are reportedly increasing enforcement actions.

Since the enforcement of Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) Stage-3 curbs on November 12, Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has levied 199 penalties amounting to ₹27.51 lakh. These fines address violations including illegal waste dumping, burning, construction debris, and the use of solid fuels. Additional measures like road sweeping machines and vigilance against illegal dumping are also being pursued by sanitation teams.

Despite these efforts, residents voice concerns about continued Grap violations, citing open burning and unregulated construction in various sectors. Experts emphasize the need for greater transparency in emission monitoring systems to enable timely and informed action. The ongoing challenges highlight the complex nature of pollution control in the region, requiring sustained vigilance and community cooperation.