JAMMU: With Jammu’s Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 179—classified as ‘unhealthy’—the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has stepped up citywide measures to curb rising pollution and safeguard public health.
Contents
Dust-Control and Road MeasuresConstruction Sites Under Strict WatchBan on Open BurningAppeal for Public Cooperation
Under the directions of JMC Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav, multiple on-ground and regulatory actions have been launched to control dust, vehicular emissions and particulate pollution, particularly from construction activity.
Dust-Control and Road Measures
JMC teams have started night-time mechanical sweeping on key roads to minimize dust dispersion, along with daytime water sprinkling in traffic-heavy corridors, marketplaces, and construction zones.
Anti-smog vehicles spraying fine water mist are also being deployed to settle airborne particles.
Construction Sites Under Strict Watch
Given the major contribution of construction dust to worsening air quality, the Commissioner has ordered:
Mandatory 3-metre-high green sheets/jute/plastic enclosures around all construction sites
Properly covered storage of sand, cement, and debris within site premises only
Complete covering of vehicles transporting construction material
Water sprinkling at loading/unloading points to reduce dust rise
No storage of material on public roads, footpaths or open spaces
Field officers are conducting surprise inspections, and violators will face hefty penalties. JMC has already enforced fines between ₹4,000 and ₹50,000 for mismanaged construction and demolition waste.
Ban on Open Burning
To reduce particulate pollution, the Corporation has intensified door-to-door waste collection and disposal, and issued strict orders against open burning of garbage, dry leaves, or plastic.
The Health and Sanitation Wing has been instructed to maintain zero tolerance and take action against offenders.
Appeal for Public Cooperation
Commissioner Dr. Yadav urged residents, contractors and developers to cooperate in the fight against pollution. He encouraged citizens to avoid open burning, plant trees, and report illegal dumping or waste burning for immediate action.
The measures fall under the ongoing “Clean Jammu, Green Jammu” campaign, which focuses on scientific and community-driven solutions to pollution and waste management.
Dr. Yadav said the Corporation will maintain strict vigilance until air quality returns to safe levels.
“Cleaner air requires sustained efforts from both administration and citizens,” he emphasised, calling for collective responsibility to ensure a healthier environment.
