Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu: With the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching alarming levels in Jammu, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has intensified measures to control air pollution and safeguard public health.
Acting under the directions of JMC Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav, a series of strict on-ground and regulatory steps have been initiated to curb dust and particulate emissions across the city.
At present, Jammu’s AQI stands at 226, placing it in the severe category.
Taking serious note of the situation, the Commissioner has directed all concerned wings of JMC to implement immediate mitigation measures.
These include night-time mechanical sweeping of major roads, daytime water sprinkling in high-traffic areas, markets, and construction zones, and the use of anti-smog gun–mounted vehicles to suppress airborne dust.
Special focus has been laid on regulating construction and demolition activities. All construction sites have been instructed to be properly enclosed with green sheets, jute fabric, or plastic covers, while construction materials must be stored within site premises and kept covered. Dumping or storage of material on public roads and footpaths has been strictly prohibited.
The vehicles transporting construction material must remain fully covered, and regular water sprinkling during loading and unloading has been made mandatory.
JMC field officers have been directed to conduct surprise inspections, and strict penalties ranging from ₹4,000 to ₹50,000 are being imposed on violators contributing to dust pollution or mismanaged construction waste.
Alongside this, JMC has strengthened its solid waste management operations to prevent open dumping and burning of garbage, a major contributor to air pollution.
The Health and Sanitation Wing has been instructed to maintain zero tolerance towards the burning of waste, dry leaves, or plastic.
Appealing for public cooperation, Dr. Devansh Yadav emphasized that improving air quality requires collective effort. Citizens have been urged to avoid open burning, support cleanliness drives, plant trees, and report pollution-related violations. For achieving better air quality 04 no of water sprinklers / multifunctional tanks and two no of anti smog guns have been put to service on roads.
These efforts are part of JMC’s ongoing “Clean Jammu, Green Jammu” initiative, reaffirming the Corporation’s commitment to restoring safe air quality levels and ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment for Jammu.DD
