New Delhi: Authorities in Delhi have issued 253 challans and imposed a cumulative fine of Rs 32.4 lakh on user agencies that did not comply with dust control norms, Environment Minister Gopal Rai said on Wednesday.

The minister said government officials have so far inspected 6,868 construction sites under the anti-dust campaign under October 6, reports news agency PTI.

“A total of 253 notices/challans have been issued and a fine of Rs 32.4 lakh imposed on violators,” he said.

In a bid to control dust pollution in the capital, user agencies of construction and demolition projects larger than 500 square metres are required to register them on the construction and demolition (C&D) portal launched in October last year.

According to report, the Delhi government, in September, had also made it mandatory to install anti-smog guns at all construction and demolition sites larger than 500 square metres.

“Red Light on Gaadi off”

The Delhi government will also launch the “Red Light on Gaadi off” campaign again to curb vehicular pollution from October 28.

“The Delhi government is on alert. We are strictly implementing all the directions of the Commission for Air Quality Management. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal reviewed the implementation of the 15-point action plan to curb air pollution in winter,” Rai had said.

Experts were of view that pollution levels may increase in Delhi after Diwali if the wind direction changes.

First launched in October 2020, the campaign aims to cut down vehicular pollution in the national capital. Under this, Drivers are encouraged to switch off their vehicles while waiting for the traffic light to turn green.