As pollution continues to cast a thick haze over India’s urban landscapes, the city of Greater Noida has emerged as a stark reminder of the country’s ongoing battle with deteriorating air quality. This bustling urban centre, nestled in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, has recently claimed the unfortunate title of the most polluted city in India, with its air quality plunging into the “poor” category, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Greater Noida Is The Most Polluted City In The Country
Greater Noida, an Indian city, has recently earned the dubious distinction of being the most polluted city in the country. As per Hindustan Times reports, it recorded an alarming air quality index (AQI) reading of 292, categorising it as “poor” according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This alarming deterioration in air quality has persisted since September 24, with PM10, a particulate matter, being the predominant pollutant. This has also caused the nearby cities of Noida and Ghaziabad to shift from “moderate” to “poor” AQI categories. Delhi has similarly seen a decline in air quality to the “poor” category.
To tackle this pressing issue, the UP Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has initiated an enforcement drive. The board will levy fines totalling ₹29,40,000 on 25 establishments in Noida and Greater Noida. These fines are imposed on entities found to be in violation of the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) stage 1 guidelines. They include restrictions on activities like construction and demolition to combat air pollution.
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Pollution Reaches Alarming Levels
As per Hindustan Times, Utsav Sharma, the regional officer of UPPCB in Noida, emphasised that despite the Grap restrictions, numerous establishments, including residential societies, apartments, and shops, failed to adhere to the rules, leading to construction and demolition work being observed during inspections.
Local environmentalists also believe that the surge in air pollution can be attributed to factors. Construction activities, vehicular emissions, and traffic congestion contribute to the worsening air quality.
The CPCB’s AQI scale classifies readings between 0 and 50 as “good,” 51 and 100 as “satisfactory,” 101 and 200 as “moderate,” 201 and 300 as “poor,” 301 and 400 as “very poor,” and 401 and 500 as “severe.”
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Authorities are closely monitoring Grap violations, considering them a significant contributor to deteriorating air quality. They have imposed penalties on violators for various offences. Failing to cover concrete, not installing green nets, and neglecting water sprinkling near construction sites, will be penalised.
Stringent measures are also being taken to curb Grap violations and improve the air quality for its residents.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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