Noida : In a strongly worded open letter addressed to the CEO of the Noida Authority, city resident Amit Gupta has raised serious concerns over the rapid deterioration of air quality in Delhi-NCR, particularly Noida and the continued violation of pollution-control rules by government departments themselves. The letter, written amid alarmingly high pollution levels across the region, outlines key sources contributing to PM10 and PM2.5 pollution, two critical air pollutants currently choking Noida’s environment.
Violations of NGT dust control norms
Amit Gupta has accused various departments of the Noida Authority, including the Jal and Civil wings, of openly disregarding National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines on dust control. He cited a recent instance where a ₹5 lakh penalty was imposed for violations at an Authority project in Sector 142. According to the letter, such repeated non-compliance is a direct contributor to the alarming spike in PM10 levels, which are largely linked to unchecked dust pollution.
Road damage by PVVNL is adding to the crisis
The letter also highlights the role of PVVNL (the power utility) in worsening pollution by digging up roads across multiple sectors, including Sector 1 and Sector 60, and failing to repair them in time.
This not only causes financial loss to the Noida Authority but also leads to large-scale dust pollution, adding to the already toxic air.- Amit gupta
Need for Accountability
Amit Gupta reminded the Authority that in September 2023, a workshop was organised to train staff on NGT norms. Despite this, on-ground adherence remains poor. He urged the CEO to take strict and immediate action to stop these violations, emphasising that controlling dust pollution at its source could significantly improve Noida’s air quality.
Key demands raised in the open letter
- Enforce strict compliance with NGT dust-control norms by all Authority departments.
- Take strong punitive action against PVVNL for road damage and negligence.
- Ensure proper and timely road restoration.
- Prioritise pollution mitigation as an urgent public health issue
Public concern rising
With pollution levels shooting into hazardous zones, residents across Noida are increasingly demanding accountability. Letters like these reflect growing frustration and a plea for urgent intervention.