Dust, smoke eclipse Indirapuram
Residents are struggling with increasing air pollution. Dust from numerous construction sites in the area pollutes the air and garbage burning is also a routine activity in the area.
Residents of Indirapuram are struggling with increasing air pollution. Dust from numerous construction sites in the area pollute the air and garbage burning is also a routine activity in the area.
The authorities seem to have turned a blind eye to the issue despite the national green tribunal’s (NGT) orders in September prohibiting burning of garbage.
Residents are restricted to their homes as smoke from the burning garbage and dust from construction sites have made it difficult for them to get a breath of fresh air. Residents say they also have to keep the windows and doors of their homes closed. “I feel uneasy when I go out for an hour-long walk in the area. The pollution also affects the greenery. Plants along the roads look lifeless,” said Anil Rathore, a resident of Ahinsa Khand-1.
One of the most rapidly developing areas of the city, Indirapuram is the worst affected by this crisis. “Every year, a new residential complex is developed here. Areas which were designated for community facilities and recreational activities are being turned into construction sites for sky-high buildings. Movement of heavy vehicles carrying construction material and debris, which pollute the air, is common here,” said Alok Kumar from apartment owners’ association (AOA), Indirapuram.
Vehicular pollution, especially from those on NH-24 and those stuck in jams on internal roads, is another matter of concern. “The rise in population is leading to a rise in vehicles. This contributes to the already-high level of pollution as well as congestion on roads,” said Shalini Sinha, a resident of Gyan Khand-3, Indirapuram.
“The removal of construction material would be undertaken soon in Indirapuram. The issue of burning municipal solid waste near Kanawani will be looked into and action taken,” said RS Diwakar, executive engineer, GDA.