Now Reading: Real estate bodies seek calibrated approach to CAQM construction curbs
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Real estate bodies seek calibrated approach to CAQM construction curbs
The Story in Brief
Real estate industry bodies Naredco and Credai have urged the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to adopt a calibrated approach to its construction restrictions in the National Capital Region (NCR), linking curbs to actual pollution levels rather than imposing a blanket ban.
In an order dated October 30, CAQM directed dust-generating demolition and outdoor construction activities across the NCR to be restricted from November 5 to 20, with exemptions for essential public infrastructure, Railways, Metro, airports, hospitals, water supply, and national security projects. The commission also ordered government and private offices in Delhi and five NCR districts to operate with up to 50% staff attending physically, with the rest working from home.
Naredco president Parveen Jain said a blanket ban without sufficient cause could hurt the real estate sector and affect livelihoods. Credai NCR secretary Nikhil Hawelia said construction activities account for less than 1% of Delhi-NCR's air pollution, and that restrictions could affect nearly 10 lakh construction workers.
Indian Opinion Analysis
The real estate bodies are pushing back against a pre-emptive ban by arguing that construction contributes minimally to pollution, citing agency studies. Their demand to link restrictions to AQI thresholds would effectively delay curbs until GRAP Stage IV, which is rarely triggered. CAQM's order relies on historical data showing a recurring pollution spike in early to mid-November. The outcome hinges on whether the commission revises its approach before November 5, or sticks to the blanket ban.
Source: hindustantimes.com
This brief was synthesised by AI from the source linked above. Methodology and corrections.
