NEW DELHI: The Delhi government has issued directions to all 11 deputy commissioners to carry out surprise checks and regular inspections in their respective areas to crack down on open burning of waste, including leaves and plastic.
Environment minister Asim Ahmed Khan said similar directions had earlier been given to the three municipal corporations of Delhi, New Delhi Municipal Council, PWD, CPWD, DDA, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), and Delhi Parks and Garden Society.
DPCC constituted teams a few days ago which have already carried out inspections at 207 locations. The department has forwarded a list of sensitive locations to the three corporations and Delhi Police.
National Green Tribunal has identified open burning of waste as one of the three main reasons for rising air pollution in Delhi and is expected to issue orders to curb it later this week. While it is already unlawful to burn waste in Delhi, authorities were never able to enforce the ban.
Sources said the environment department is finalizing a series of measures to discourage open burning, including penalty for defaulters. DPCC has issued a WhatsApp helpline number— 9717593574— on which complaints can be made. The department has also started a Facebook page. The complaints received here will be sent to the local bodies and Delhi Police for action.
The minister also announced that an extensive campaign will be started across Delhi to make residents aware of the harmful effects of burning of garbage, leaves and plastic in the open. As part of this campaign, the environment department has directed the corporations, NDMC, DDA and other agencies to put up hoardings near parks displaying helpline numbers and highlighting the harmful effects of open burning of garbage. It will be carrying out similar campaigns on radio and social media.
