Argus News - Odisha Govt Imposes Restrictions: What You Need to Know About Air Pollution Curbs in Twin City

Bhubaneswar, Jan 6: In response to worsening air pollution levels, strict restrictions have been enforced across Odisha’s twin city region.

Authorities announced a series of measures aimed at reducing emissions and controlling dust, with immediate effect.

As per the directive, construction activities will remain suspended between 6 PM and 10 AM daily. Burning of waste in open areas and coal usage in roadside eateries has also been prohibited.

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Heavy vehicular movement during night-time hours has been restricted to ease congestion and reduce pollution.

To further control dust, water sprinkling will be carried out three times a day along National Highways. Within municipal limits, demolition or debris-related work has been banned until further notice.

Truck movement inside city areas has also been stopped to minimize vehicular emissions.

Police and Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials have been instructed to strictly enforce these curbs. Odisha Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia has warned of stern action against violators, emphasizing that compliance is crucial to safeguard public health.

A high-level meeting is scheduled Tuesday to review the situation. The Forest and Environment Minister will chair discussions with departmental officials to assess the effectiveness of the measures and explore additional strategies.

Similar restrictions were recently imposed in Balasore and Angul, highlighting the state government’s growing concern over deteriorating air quality across multiple districts.

Officials noted that rising pollution levels, particularly during winter, necessitate urgent intervention to protect citizens from respiratory and related health issues.

These measures reflect the administration’s proactive stance in combating pollution, with a focus on reducing dust, vehicular emissions, and industrial smoke.