PATNA: As Patna’s air quality has recently dropped into the “moderate” category, concerns regarding increasing particulate pollution have led the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) to implement stricter regulations on the disposal of construction and demolition waste to address dust pollution.
Over the past 24 hours, the average Air Quality Index (AQI) in Patna was recorded at 177, classified as “moderate,” according to a bulletin from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) released on Wednesday.
According to the bulletin, PM2.5 has been identified as the main pollutant in the city, primarily arising from building materials and construction debris. In response, the PMC has initiated a series of stringent measures aimed at reducing this source of pollution.
D K Shukla, Chairman of the Bihar State Pollution Control Board, stated, “Construction and demolition wastes produce two kinds of pollutants: PM2.5, which includes cement and finer dust, and PM10, which comprises sand and larger particles. Pollution levels tend to rise in winter as vertical dispersal is restricted; fog traps pollutants in moisture particles, preventing them from dispersing.”
To enhance air quality, the PMC issued a formal directive on Wednesday, which prohibits the dumping of debris in open areas or on public roads. All construction and demolition waste must now be taken to specific secondary locations across Bankipore, Azimabad, Patna City, Patliputra, Kankarbagh, and the New Capital. Additionally, the installation of green mesh at all construction sites is now mandatory to help control dust dispersion.
Shukla added, “The green cloth is required for any ongoing construction project.”
The health risks associated with these particles are considerable. Health experts warn that PM2.5 particles can bypass the respiratory tract, penetrate deep into the lungs, and even enter the bloodstream.
Officials from the PMC noted that violations of disposal regulations could result in fines of up to Rs 1,500. To aid compliance, the municipal body is providing a debris collection service for Rs 600 per trip, available through their toll-free number 155304 or via the official WhatsApp chatbot. By consolidating waste disposal at designated locations like Arya Kumar Road, Gardanibagh, and Transport Nagar, the corporation aims to enhance the city’s overall air quality.
