 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Nov 10: In view of the rising Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in Jammu, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has intensified its efforts to combat air pollution and ensure cleaner, safer air for the city's residents. The Corporation has put in place several on-ground and regulatory measures under the directions of JMC Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav to control dust and particulate emissions, particularly from vehicular movement and construction activities.
The AQI is a scientific index that indicates how clean or polluted the air is, along with the potential health risks associated with exposure to polluted air. A higher AQI value signifies greater levels of pollution and an increased risk to public health. The AQI scale is divided into categories-0-50 signifies good air quality, 51-100 moderate, 101-150 unhealthy for sensitive groups, and 151-200 unhealthy for all. Currently, the AQI level in Jammu has reached 179, which falls in the unhealthy category, making it a matter of serious concern.
Taking note of the situation, Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav has issued strict directions to all concerned wings of JMC to implement comprehensive anti-pollution measures. These include night-time sweeping of main roads with modern mechanical sweeping machines to minimize dust dispersion and daytime water sprinkling across key traffic corridors, market areas, and construction zones. The Corporation is also using vehicles equipped with anti-smog guns to spray water mist, which helps to settle airborne dust particles. In an attempt to further reduce dust from construction and demolition activities, Dr. Yadav has ordered that all construction sites must be properly enclosed using green sheets, jute fabric, or plastic covers at least three meters high to prevent dust from escaping into the open air. Construction materials such as sand, cement, and debris must be stored within the premises and covered with tarpaulin or plastic sheets to prevent them from being carried away by wind. Storage of such material on public roads, footpaths, or open spaces has been strictly prohibited.
Vehicles transporting construction materials are required to be completely covered to prevent spillage or dust pollution during transit. Regular water sprinkling and cleaning should be undertaken during loading and unloading of construction materials. JMC field officers have been directed to conduct surprise inspections at construction and demolition sites to ensure compliance, and violators will face strict penalties. The Corporation has imposed fines ranging from ?4,000 to ?50,000 on individuals, contractors, and agencies found responsible for contributing to mismanaged construction and demolition waste .
In addition to construction regulation, JMC has intensified its solid waste management and cleanliness operations. Teams have been deployed in all zones for door-to-door garbage collection and proper disposal to avoid burning of waste in the open, which is one of the major causes of rising particulate matter in the air. The Health and Sanitation Wing has been instructed to ensure zero tolerance towards open burning of garbage, dry leaves, or plastic waste.
The Commissioner has also appealed to citizens, contractors, and developers to cooperate with the Municipal Corporation in its pollution control efforts. He emphasized that public participation is essential for achieving cleaner air and a sustainable environment. Residents are encouraged to avoid open burning, plant more trees, and report any incidents of dust pollution or waste burning to the Corporation for prompt action.
These measures form part of JMC's broader commitment to improving air quality and promoting environmental well-being across Jammu. Under the ongoing "Clean Jammu, Green Jammu" initiative, the Corporation is adopting scientific and community-driven methods to address pollution, manage waste, and promote eco-friendly practices. Dr. Devansh Yadav reaffirmed JMC's determination to maintain vigilance until air quality levels return to safe and healthy standards. He stated that sustained and collective efforts from both the administration and citizens are crucial to ensure a cleaner, greener, and healthier Jammu. |
