UPPCB Clarifies: Carpentry and Steel Binding Allowed Under GRAP Stages 3 and 4
The UPPCB has clarified that less-polluting construction activities, such as steel binding and carpentry, are permitted under GRAP stages 3 and 4, following concerns raised by CREDAI about misinterpretation of CAQM guidelines.
UppcbGrap GuidelinesConstruction ActivitiesDust Control MeasuresCredaiReal EstateDec 01, 2024
In a letter dated November 22, CREDAI NCR Secretary Gaurav Gupta raised concerns that local enforcement officers were implementing a blanket ban on all construction and demolition (C&D) activities, contrary to CAQM's guidelines. CREDAI argued that less-polluting tasks, such as steel binding, shuttering, and carpentry, are explicitly permitted under CAQM rules, provided they adhere to strict dust control measures. The association highlighted that this misinterpretation was causing significant delays in projects, causing hardship for thousands of workers, and negatively affecting homebuyers.
CREDAI cited CAQM orders issued on September 17, November 14, and November 17, which outline the actions to be taken under GRAP. These guidelines clearly state that specific dust-generating activities, such as excavation, piling, and road construction, are banned. However, less-polluting tasks are permitted if they comply with the Construction and Demolition (C&D) Waste Management Rules. Gupta emphasized that the misinterpretation of these guidelines had led to unnecessary work stoppages, causing distress for thousands of construction workers in the NCR region and delays in crucial projects, resulting in substantial losses and harm to homebuyers. Gupta called on the UPPCB to issue clear directives to enforcement teams to prevent further confusion.
Utsav Sharma, the UPPCB regional officer, clarified that GRAP guidelines do not impose a blanket ban on all construction and demolition activities at any stage. He explained that during GRAP stages 3 and 4, specific guidelines are in place for construction sites to control dust pollution. During Stage 4 of GRAP, all activities prohibited under Stage 3 remain banned. However, as in Stage 3, less-polluting or dust-generating activities are permitted during Stage 4, provided they strictly comply with the C&D Waste Management Rules and relevant directives.
The UPPCB has urged all construction sites in Noida and Greater Noida to implement specific measures to reduce dust pollution and comply with environmental guidelines. These measures include the use of water sprinklers, dust suppressants, and anti-smog guns to control airborne particles. Nikhil Hawelia, the joint secretary of CREDAI NCR and MD of Hawelia Group, mentioned that the UPPCB's clarification had alleviated concerns within the real estate sector, as work had now resumed at several sites in Noida.
In conclusion, the clarification by the State Pollution Control Board has provided much-needed clarity to the construction sector, especially in Noida and Greater Noida, where confusion over GRAP guidelines had led to disruptions. By permitting less-polluting activities with proper dust control measures, the board has ensured that critical construction projects can resume without compromising environmental standards. This resolution supports both the real estate sector and the workforce. The UPPCB's ongoing efforts to monitor and enforce compliance with dust control measures will be essential in maintaining a balance between construction activities and environmental protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are GRAP guidelines?
GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) guidelines are a set of regulations designed to combat air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR). They categorize pollution levels into different stages and prescribe specific actions to be taken at each stage to control and reduce pollution.
What activities are banned under GRAP Stages 3 and 4?
Under GRAP Stages 3 and 4, specific dust-generating activities such as excavation, piling, and road construction are banned to reduce air pollution. However, less-polluting activities like steel binding and carpentry are allowed if they comply with dust control measures.
How did CREDAI raise concerns about the misinterpretation of GRAP guidelines?
CREDAI, through a letter dated November 22, highlighted that local enforcement officials were imposing a blanket ban on all construction activities, contrary to the CAQM guidelines. They argued that this misinterpretation was causing significant project delays and distress for workers and homebuyers.
What measures are recommended by the UPPCB to control dust pollution?
The UPPCB recommends the use of water sprinklers, dust suppressants, and anti-smog guns at construction sites to control airborne particles and reduce dust pollution. These measures are essential for compliance with environmental guidelines.
What is the role of the UPPCB in enforcing GRAP guidelines?
The UPPCB (Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board) is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with GRAP guidelines. They issue directives to local enforcement teams and ensure that construction sites follow the prescribed dust control measures to maintain environmental standards.
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