New Delhi: The delay in rationalising measures to control pollution due to the absence of the standing committee in MCD was discussed during a review meeting to combat pollution that was chaired by the lieutenant governor.
As a short-term measure to control vehicle emissions in Delhi, it was suggested during the meet that NDMC double the parking rates during GRAP II on Oct 22.
However, due to the non-formation of the standing committee, the issue of rationalisation of parking fee is delayed in MCD, according to the details of the review meeting.
It was directed to increase existing parking fees upon the imposition of Stage III (severe) and Stage IV (severe+) of GRAP.
In view of the rising pollution across Delhi-NCR, New Delhi Municipal Corporation doubled the parking fee for all cars and two-wheelers until the revocation of Stage II of GRAP in the national capital earlier this week.
Mayor Shelly Oberoi said that MCD was examining the proposal of raising parking fees. "It would also put extra burden on people," she said.
The meeting also discussed that the La Niña weather pattern is expected to start from Nov, almost coinciding with Diwali. Historically, the peak period for stubble burning falls between Oct 25 to Nov 6. La Niña leads to cooler ocean surface temperatures in the Pacific, which in turn triggers global climate alterations, including harsher winters in India.
Officials said it was suggested that given these factors, a significant increase in air pollution is anticipated, particularly from Oct 28-29 to Nov 3. The combination of La Niña, Diwali and stubble burning is likely to contribute to a sharp deterioration in air quality during this time.
The meeting was told that dedicated teams, consisting of 523 members, have been assigned to patrol and inspect construction and demolition (C&D) sites, as well as open areas, for any violations. These teams operate both during the day and night to ensure comprehensive monitoring, said an official.
A web portal has been established for C&D sites with a plot area of 500 square metres and above. This portal is fully operational and has registered approximately 1,316 construction sites, out of which 581 are currently active, he said.
The purpose of this portal is to assist project proponents in self-auditing their dust mitigation measures, he added.
To combat air pollution, 498 anti-smog guns have been deployed at 247 large construction sites.