Noida authority takes strict stance on pollution, administration on alert for GRAP-4 implementation

Noida (The Uttam Hindu): In view of the deteriorating air quality, the Noida Authority held a high-level review meeting on Tuesday regarding the strict implementation of GRAP-4. The meeting was chaired by the Authority's Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Lokesh M. All senior officers of the Authority, representatives from the district administration, IT companies, schools, and educational institutions were present.

The meeting emphasized the implementation of the directives given in the meeting held on December 15, chaired by the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Officials were given clear instructions to take immediate action in coordination with all departments to control air pollution in Noida.

Identifying vehicular pollution as a major cause, instructions were given to promote electric vehicles, increase the number of charging stations, and upgrade older vehicles that do not meet BS-VI standards. Emphasis was also placed on expediting improvement work at traffic congestion points and preventing unnecessary traffic jams.

IT companies, schools, and universities were urged to adopt work-from-home and online/hybrid modes during the GRAP-3 and GRAP-4 periods to reduce the pressure of vehicles on the roads. They were also asked to refrain from organizing large events during this time.

Strict control over emissions from industries, restaurants, and street vendors, strict action against open burning of waste, limited use of diesel generators, mechanical cleaning of roads, and development of green areas were also directed.

The Authority has also appealed to citizens, institutions, and social organizations to actively cooperate in pollution control to make Noida's air clean and safe.