Bhubaneswar: In view of alarming air pollution levels that greeted the New Year, the Odisha government has decided to impose stringent restrictions across the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack to combat rising dust and emissions.
The measures, effective immediately, target key sources of pollution as Air Quality Index (AQI) readings soared into the ‘severe’ category in early January. Recent data from monitoring stations revealed hazardous conditions, with Bhubaneswar recording an AQI of 352 and Cuttack at 309 on New Year’s morning. By January 5, levels remained in the ‘poor’ to ‘severe’ range, with Bhubaneswar at around 256 and Cuttack at 251 as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) bulletins. Dense smog reduced visibility to as low as 50 meters in parts of the capital, exacerbated by winter inversion, vehicular emissions, construction dust, and lingering effects from year-end celebrations.
The new guidelines are as follows
Night-time Construction Ban: All construction and related activities are prohibited from 6 pm to 10 am to minimize dust generation during low-wind hours.
Demolition Halt: Demolition of buildings within municipal limits is suspended indefinitely until air quality improves.
Heavy Vehicle Restrictions: Entry and circulation of trucks and heavy vehicles in city limits are curtailed, with police and Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials directed to enforce strict checks on vehicle fitness and emission standards.
Enhanced Dust Control: Roads, including National Highways and major arteries, will see water sprinkling three times a day to suppress airborne particles.
Fuel Restrictions: Roadside eateries, hotels, and similar establishments are barred from using coal or firewood, shifting to cleaner alternatives.
Ban on Open Burning: Burning of garbage, dry leaves, plastic, or any waste in open spaces is completely prohibited.
Forest, Environment and Climate Minister Ganesh Singh Khuntia has issued a stern warning, stating that violators will face rigorous legal action and heavy fines.
These steps build on ongoing efforts under the State Clean Air Programme and follow high-level meetings by the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), which emphasised additional actions like targeted fogging in high-traffic areas and stricter oversight of construction sites.
Officials stressed that the restrictions aim to protect public health, particularly vulnerable groups, as prolonged exposure to high PM2.5 and PM10 levels poses risks of respiratory issues and other ailments.
