AHMEDABAD: Some developers are allegedly misleading the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) by violating air pollution management rules at their construction sites and covering their tracks. A regulation introduced in 2023 mandates the installation of air quality sensors to monitor PM10 levels at all construction sites over 10,000 square meters. Currently, over 100 sites have sensors that provide real-time data to the AMC.
The civic body grew suspicious when certain sites reported consistently low PM10 levels below 50, raising concerns of manipulation. Investigations confirmed these suspicions; sensors at several locations were found wrapped in wet cloths to alter the readings.
An AMC official, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated, “In 2023, the corporation implemented a policy to combat air pollution from construction activities. Installing air quality sensors became mandatory for approving plans for larger sites. As of July 2025, 100 sites have these sensors. Should pollution exceed acceptable levels, the builders will be alerted, and fines will be imposed for repeated offenses.”
The official further added, “Recently, certain construction sites exhibited unusually low PM10 readings, indicating potential tampering. Some sites have even been caught covering their sensors with wet cloths, complicating detection efforts. We are actively working to prevent such manipulation.”
The 2023 legislation also requires the installation of barricades and height screens around active construction zones, covering loose materials and spraying water to minimize dust. Proper road paving at construction sites has also been mandated, with an emphasis on vehicle wheel cleaning to avoid damage to roads or sidewalks. Disposal of debris must occur at designated collection centers.
In recent developments, AMC revealed that its Air Quality Management Cell is developing a software system for managing air pollution complaints, as the city currently lacks an efficient mechanism to address these concerns. In June, the AMC’s standing committee extended its contract with an agency specializing in air pollution consultation for an additional year, now set to end on April 30, 2026.
