Notices to 34 construction units for failure to prevent pollution

The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has issued notices to 34 construction units of Lucknow and nearby districts this week for their alleged failure to meet the required guidelines to prevent particulate pollution of the air while carrying out construction work.

“These construction units were found to be carrying out work without adhering to guidelines to prevent air pollution. Such act is categorised as illegal construction. They have been issued notices regarding the same. These units have also been asked to explain their action or face fines,” said regional officer, UPPCB, Ram Karan.

Of the 34, maximum 22 units are of Lucknow and the rest are in Sitapur, Barabanki and Rae Bareli districts.

The action is a part of the efforts made by the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board to contain the worsening air quality of Lucknow and nearby districts. Recently, the air quality index (AQI) of Lucknow reached hazardous level.

“Particulate pollution caused by illegal construction is a major cause that contributes to the worsening of AQI. We are trying to limit this so that the air quality can be improved, especially during winter,” said the officer.

The UPPCB has earlier issued guidelines to the construction units asking them to adhere to the guidelines. These guidelines basically include taking up measures like water spraying, using dust curtains, closed construction and the like to prevent causing too much dust.

As per an estimate, more than 800 registered construction units are there in Lucknow districts itself. Around 200 of these were inspected in the last few days.

“We will continue the inspection of these units in the coming days and action will be taken against them if they are found not following the required guidelines,” said the officer.

In a similar action last year, the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board had slapped a fine of over Rs 30 lakh on a dozen construction units in Lucknow and nearby districts.