43 sites get closure notices in Sonepat for violating GRAP norms

The Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) has served show-cause notices for closure on 43 sites, including 24 construction sites, for violating norms under GRAP-2, while 19 diesel generator (DG) sets were found operational in the district.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented GRAP-2 in the NCR due to poor Air Quality Index (AQI).

As per the CAQM’s directions, it is mandatory for all projects in the NCR of plot area equal or more than 500 sq metres to register on the dust control portal developed by the state governments towards remote monitoring of such project sites for compliance of stipulated dust mitigation measures.

Following the directions of the CAQM, the HSPCB had developed a portal — Dust Control Self Assessment.

The board launched a special drive in the district after the CAQM implemented GRAP-2. Its teams found 24 construction sites at HSIIDC-Barhi, IMT-Kharkhoda, and Kundli area which had not registered on the portal.

During inspection, the board found several violations, including absence of PM 2.5 and PM 10 sensors and anti-smog gun; uncovered building material; no dust masks for workers; and inadequate green net tarpaulin.

Apart from the construction sites, DG sets were running at 19 institutions — 17 industries at HSIIDC, Barhi, Bahalgarh and Kundli, a school and a private hospital. The teams sealed two DG sets.

Pradeep Singh, Regional Officer (RO), HSPCB, said notices had been served on 24 non-compliant construction sites in residential and industrial areas, and 19 industries for non-compliant DG sets for closure as well as prosecution and levying of environmental compensation.