Chirag Gupta
Begusarai: In a concerted effort to address rising pollution levels in Begusarai, District Magistrate Tushar Singla chaired a meeting of the District Environment Committee at Kargil Bhawan in the Collectorate. The meeting saw the participation of the DDC, Municipal Commissioner, SDOs, technical officers, Confidential Branch Incharge, and various other district-level officials.
During the session, the Development Branch Incharge presented an in-depth report on environmental challenges through a PowerPoint presentation. Responding to the issues raised, the DM directed the Municipal Corporation, Municipal Councils, and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to enforce the use of nets or green sheets at construction sites to reduce dust pollution.
The DM also instructed SDOs, Municipal Commissioners, and Executive Officers to strictly prevent the collection and burning of solid waste, with a particular focus on discouraging bonfires during the winter months. To support this initiative, SDOs were tasked with distributing blankets to the public. The District Transport Officer was directed to enforce a ban on diesel vehicles older than 15 years, while the Rural Works Department was asked to ensure regular water sprinkling at road construction sites to minimise dust pollution.
Fines will be imposed on those violating pollution control norms, as outlined in advisories from the Central and State Governments. Areas with heavy footfall, such as bus stands and railway stations, will receive special attention. Municipal Councils were instructed to identify designated parking areas and formulate comprehensive traffic management plans to aid pollution control efforts.
The DM further directed the Municipal Commissioner and Executive Engineers to conduct workshops for ward members and sanitation workers, focusing on cleanliness and effective garbage management. At the Panchayat level, Village Health and Sanitation Committees were tasked with convening meetings to enhance local sanitation initiatives. These measures aim to integrate waste management, traffic regulation, and public awareness as part of a holistic approach to pollution control in Begusarai.
