Delhi CM warns DMRC of action for flouting dust control norms at metro construction sites

New Delhi

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday (December 5, 2025) warned the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) of action for flouting dust control norms at metro construction sites.

“Under no circumstances should construction activities lead to pollution”, Ms. Gupta said while directing the agency to mandatorily implement effective dust-control measures at all its construction sites, a communique from the CM office said.

CM has also directed the Metro to ensure regular cleaning and removal of garbage from beneath its elevated routes.

The directions were issued during the high-level review meeting in which officials of DMRC, transport minister Pankaj Kumar Singh, Chief Secretary Rajeev Verma, and senior officials from various departments of the Delhi Government were also present.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister expressed displeasure over continuous complaints that heavy dust is rising from most Metro construction sites and that adequate dust-mitigation measures have not been implemented.

“Citizens have also complained that even when Metro work is completed, roads, footpaths and other infrastructure have not been repaired, resulting in pollution and causing traffic obstructions, Ms Gupta pointed out in the meeting.

She added that she herself has observed heaps of garbage under the Metro’s elevated routes, indicating negligence in maintaining cleanliness.

CM further remarked that it appears the Metro uses its elevated structures primarily for advertising, while cleanliness is being ignored. “…An institution as reputed as the Metro is expected to become a model for environmental protection, not appearing to be part of the problem,” she said.

As the DMRC officials elaborated the measures being taken by them to mitigate the pollution concerns, CM issued clear instructions to them for mandatorily using modern technologies for dust control at construction sites. “Construction materials should be covered, regular water sprinkling must be ensured, and soil or debris must not spill onto the roads,” she directed the DMRC.

Claiming that the government and its departments are working on a war footing against pollution and that any negligence by any department contributing to pollution will not be tolerated, CM also said that she would soon visit the ongoing Metro construction sites, and if any negligence is found, stringent action will be taken against the Metro.

She categorically said that be it the Metro, Municipal Corporation, Public Works Department, or any other agency, if any negligence contributing to pollution is found, strict and exemplary action will be taken