Pollution curbs imposed in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, SOP issued

In view of rising pollution levels, the Odisha government has imposed strict restrictions in the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. All construction activities, both government and private, will remain suspended from 6 pm to 10 am, officials said on Tuesday.
 
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been issued, and district collectors have been directed to ensure strict implementation.

Forest, Environment and Climate Minister Ganesh Singh Khuntia said, “To control pollution in the twin cities, we have decided to ban all ongoing civil construction work from 6 pm to 10 am. An SOP has been prepared and communicated to the concerned district collectors to ensure effective enforcement.”

The Minister said additional curbs have been placed on activities contributing to air pollution. Burning of garbage in open areas and the use of coal in roadside eateries and dhabas have been strictly prohibited. Movement of heavy vehicles during night hours has also been restricted.

To reduce dust pollution, authorities will carry out water sprinkling on national highways three times a day. Demolition and debris-related activities will not be permitted within municipal limits. Police and the Regional Transport Office (RTO) have been instructed to strictly enforce the ban on truck movement inside city limits.

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The minister warned that strict action will be taken against violators. The measures aim to improve air quality and protect public health as pollution levels continue to remain a concern in the twin cities.