CM Rekha Gupta warns DMRC against construction dust pollution

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday issued tough instructions to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, warning that any negligence causing dust pollution at construction sites will invite strict action. She ordered DMRC to ensure that no construction activity adds to the city’s pollution and directed mandatory dust control measures across all active sites.

The Chief Minister held a high-level review meeting with senior DMRC officials, Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh, Chief Secretary Rajeev Verma and officers from multiple departments. She expressed strong displeasure over continuous public complaints that Metro construction sites are generating heavy dust and that required mitigation steps are missing. She also flagged reports that footpaths and roads are left unrepaired even after construction work is completed, leading to more dust and traffic disruptions.

The Chief Minister said she has personally seen garbage piles under elevated Metro lines, calling it a clear sign of neglect. She told officials that while the Metro uses these elevated stretches for advertising, cleanliness below them is being ignored. She said this would not be tolerated and that the Metro must maintain all areas linked to its construction zones.

Metro officials informed her that dust control steps, such as water sprinkling and covering of material, are being taken. They said cleaning work under the elevated routes has been started and that waste is now being removed even from spots that technically fall under other agencies. The Chief Minister, however, told them to intensify these efforts.

The Chief Minister directed DMRC to deploy modern dust control technologies, ensure regular water sprinkling and prevent soil and debris from spilling onto public roads. She told DMRC that as a reputed institution, it should serve as a model for environmental responsibility. She announced that she will conduct surprise inspections at Metro sites and warned that any lapse will lead to firm action against the corporation.

The Chief Minister said the Delhi government is working on a war footing against pollution, and none of its departments or partner agencies will be allowed any leniency. She said clean air is a basic right and the government is accountable for safeguarding public health.

She stressed that this is not a routine administrative push but a real “war mode” operation where every agency must meet its responsibilities. She added that whether it is DMRC, the Municipal Corporation, PWD or any other body, negligence that contributes to pollution will bring strict and exemplary action.