‘ Take strict action to tackle air pollution’

New Delhi, Feb. 19: The environment ministry has directed Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to take strict measures, including on- the- spot action in case of vehicular pollution and traffic congestion, to tackle air pollution.

The ministry has asked both these states to take all measures to mitigate air pollution in cities such as Ghaziabad, Noida, Faridabad and Gurgaon in a campaign mode, so that a visible improvement in air quality can be brought in Delhi and its adjoining areas.

The Centre has also directed the Dehi Metro Rail Corporation, National Highway Authority of India, Public Works Department, Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India and NBCC ( India) Limited to enforce dust mitigation measures as required under the recently notified dust standards.

“The state governments and other agencies have been directed to focus on large polluting activities and take adequate on- the- spot response in cases of vehicular pollution and traffic congestion,” an official statement said.

They have also been directed to ensure strict implementation of the ban on garbage burning, impose penalty on violators, management of fly ash, inspect brick- kilns to check if guidelines are being followed and encourage plantation of saplings in open areas, the ministry said.