New Delhi: The severe pollution levels in Delhi NCR is forcing government agencies to act tough on those who are violating rules meant to curb worsening of air quality. Vinod Kumar, director of realty firm Saviour Green Arch has been arrested for allegedly carrying out construction in Greater Noida even though there has been a ban on construction activity till 5 November.
Realty players Mahagun Group and Gaurs group were also served notices for breaching the norms, according to media reports.
An a raid carried out by Noida administration, Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board and district police jointly, it was found that these firms were allegedly not following the orders of Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) that had disallowed construction activity in Delhi NCR till 5 November.
“Mahagun and Gaurs Group had a stone crusher plant and a mixer plant at their project sites and have been issued a notice which has sought their explanation, failing which action would be initiated against them,” a senior police official has been quoted in the media.
Rs 5 lakh penalty has been imposed on another realty player Blue Walk Pathway in Greater Noida (West) for allegedly violating the norms.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) has remained ‘severe’ inmnay places in the Delhi NCR for many days now. Pollutions levels have even breached the index in some places and health emergency has been declared with schools having been forced to shut for few days.