The orders were issued for development authorities of Ghaziabad, Meerut, Hapur-Pilkhuwa, Bulandshahr, Khurja, Baghpat-Khekra, and Muzzafarnagar.

It will now be mandatory for developers to put up covers around under-construction buildings apart from sprinkling water over construction material during their transportation and usage. The order has also asked for the mandatory use of dust suspension units and covering of construction material during transportation.

“We are issuing the directions to all officials concerned to ensure that these conditions are made a mandatory part of granting approval to building plan and layout of construction projects. These conditions will be made mandatory in order to prevent air pollution,” said Ishtiyaq Ahmed, chief architect and town planner, Ghaziabad development authority (GDA).

Further, the state has also directed NCR’s development authorities to widen existing roads and improve infrastructure to reduce traffic congestion and the resultant vehicular pollution. They have also been directed to take steps for black-topping/pavement construction of kuchha areas along the roads to prevent dust pollution.

Official sources said until now, some of these conditions were mandatory for getting clearance for buildings to be raised over an area of 20,000 sqm or above. “Now, with the order rolled out, these conditions will be mandatory for all categories of buildings, irrespective of the size of the project. These will be applicable for all residential and commercial projects,” said Ahmed, adding that the conditions will be complied with.

However, activists said these conditions will be fruitful only if authorities ensure compliance.

“The authorities seem disinterested in enforcing such guidelines. Air and dust pollution is a major issue troubling residents and daily commuters. It is only when there is strict enforcement that the directions are helpful to the common man,” said Vikrant Sharma, an environment activist.