Hi-tech monitoring falls flat in A'bad as no builder fined for air pollution
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Despite the introduction of advanced monitoring technologies, these sites remain contributors to air quality violations.
Since 2023, the AMC has mandated air quality sensors for construction sites exceeding 10,000 square metres. Currently, 100 such sites across the city feature online monitoring systems that trigger notices when pollution levels spike. However, despite this technology, no developer has faced penalties based on sensor data over the past year, highlighting implementation gaps that persist even with sophisticated monitoring infrastructure.
The AMC's own 2021-22 study of 452 construction sites revealed violations across real estate projects of varying scales. "New regulations introduced comprehensive measures including mandatory barricades, dust suppression spraying, proper road paving and wheel cleaning systems for construction vehicles," a senior AMC official said.
He adds, "The rules exist on paper, but effective enforcement remains challenging."
In May this year, the AMC's standing committee addressed Ready Mix Concrete plants operating in residential areas, a significant pollution source. "New SOPs mandate relocation of existing RMC plants from residential zones by July 2025, with complete prohibition on new installations from Aug onwards," said the AMC official.
A few of these citizen-focused initiatives recorded a 40% reduction in air pollution, according to Gujarat Environmental Management Institute's (GEMI) AQI survey.
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"It earned the city a substantial incentive grant of Rs 120.04 crore from the central govt for 2022-23, enabling the extension of the consultant agency's contract until April 2026," said a senior AMC official.
The AMC's Air Quality Management Cell has already implemented multiple projects including maintaining CNG-powered crematorium furnaces, mechanical smart parking systems, urban forests and electric vehicle charging stations with solar power supply. The cell regularly uploads data to the central govt's Portal for Regulation of Air-pollution in Non-Attainment (PRANA) cities.
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