Delhi Bans Winter Construction to Combat Air Pollution

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced a complete ban on construction activities in Delhi from December 10 to January 20 to mitigate winter air pollution. To prevent violations that Gupta noted occurred "behind covers" during previous winters despite Graded Response Action Plan restrictions, the government will implement real-time monitoring for sites larger than 500 square metres.

The monitoring effort centers on the Dust Portal 2.0, developed by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee. This system integrates AI-enabled cameras, GIS mapping, and PM10 and PM2.5 sensors to trigger alerts for the government's Control and Command Centre, facilitating the digital issuance of notices and fines.

Beyond the upcoming ban, the government reported inspecting 2,011 industrial units between January and July, which led to closure orders for 33 non-compliant facilities. Residents are encouraged to report construction violations via the Green Delhi and MCD 311 apps, or directly to the Chief Minister, local MLAs, and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi.