CAQM Mandates Scientific Disposal of Construction Waste in NCR from April 1
In a significant move to combat air pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has announced the strict enforcement of its Direction No. 97, focusing on the scientific disposal of construction and demolition (C&D) waste across the National Capital Region (NCR). This directive will officially take effect starting April 1, as confirmed during a press conference held on Friday.
Key Requirements for Municipal Bodies and Authorities
Under the new regulations, all municipal bodies and development authorities within NCR are required to establish at least one collection point for C&D waste in every 5x5 kilometer area under their jurisdiction. Additionally, these agencies must set up adequate intermediate storage and processing facilities to manage the waste efficiently. Officials emphasized that this infrastructure is crucial for ensuring proper waste handling and reducing environmental impact.
Mandatory Declarations and Penalties for Non-Compliance
The direction mandates that all construction sites or projects with an area of 200 square meters or more must declare the estimated quantity of demolition waste before receiving building plan clearance. After construction or demolition activities, the generated waste must be deposited at designated collection points or storage facilities. A receipt will be issued upon deposition, which must be presented to authorities.
Failure to produce this receipt or proof of waste deposition will result in penal action, including the withholding of completion certificates or occupation certificates. CAQM member technical SD Attri stated, "All agencies responsible for issuing completion certificates will have to verify the receipt of demolition waste deposition prior to issuance." The environmental compensation amount will be determined based on the quantum of waste generated and the size of the project area.
Addressing Dust Pollution in NCR
Attri highlighted that C&D waste is a major contributor to dust pollution in the NCR, accounting for approximately 15% of pollution during winter and 27% in summer. By enforcing these measures, CAQM aims to mitigate this source of air quality degradation and promote cleaner urban environments.
Progress and Future Plans
CAQM initially issued this direction on February 20, providing agencies with time to establish the necessary facilities. Data shared by the commission indicates that there are currently 122 collection points for C&D waste in Delhi. Attri noted, "We already had collection points, but the direction calls for at least one in every 5x5km area to make waste deposition more accessible for project proponents." He added that updated data on additional collection points will be available soon, enhancing transparency in tracking waste generation and disposal.
Technological Integration for Effective Implementation
To support the directive, NCR governments have been instructed to develop an integrated web portal and geo-tag all waste collection points, storage facilities, and processing centers. "Additionally, GPS tracking of C&D waste transportation is required to facilitate smooth implementation of the directions," Attri explained. This technological approach aims to streamline operations and ensure accountability in waste management processes.
The enforcement of these rules represents a proactive step by CAQM to address environmental concerns and improve air quality standards in the NCR, with a focus on sustainable urban development and pollution control.
