New NCR Construction Guidelines for Pollution Control

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has introduced new NCR Construction Guidelines allowing real estate developers in the National Capital Region (NCR) to continue with non-polluting construction activities during periods of severe air pollution. This change aims to mitigate project delays and keep laborers engaged during the winter months when pollution levels typically rise due to factors like stubble burning and low wind speeds.

Key Highlights

• Revised Guidelines: The new NCR Construction Guidelines specify banned activities instead of imposing a blanket ban on all construction work when air quality reaches “severe” levels (Stage III). This allows developers to continue with certain interior and non-polluting tasks, which can constitute up to 50% of their work.
• Impact on Labor: The guidelines are designed to prevent job losses among laborers who migrate to Delhi-NCR for work. Frequent bans previously led to unemployment and delayed project timelines as workers would return home, making remobilization challenging.
• Industry Response: Industry leaders, including Harsh Vardhan Bansal from the National Real Estate Development Council and Nikhil Hawelia from the Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India, have welcomed the NCR Construction Guidelines. They believe these changes will help in planning and executing non-polluting activities without affecting the environment.
• Project Delays: Developers have expressed concerns about delays caused by construction bans. Even short bans can lead to significant project delays due to the time needed to remobilize the workforce. The new guidelines aim to minimize these disruptions by allowing continuous work on non-polluting tasks.
• Exemptions and Bans: While non-essential construction activities are restricted under the NCR Construction Guidelines, essential projects related to national security, healthcare, and infrastructure are exempted. Additionally, operations of certain diesel vehicles are also restricted under Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

These measures reflect a balanced approach by the CAQM to address air quality concerns while supporting economic activities and safeguarding employment in the NCR region.

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