The Odisha government has announced a temporary night-time ban on construction activities in a bid to tackle rising urban air pollution in major cities such as Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. Under the new directive, all construction and demolition work within these urban areas will be prohibited daily from 6 pm to 10 am until further notice.
Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia said the move is intended to reduce dust and other airborne particulates during hours when pollution levels tend to spike and atmospheric conditions make dispersion difficult. Officials have also been directed to suspend the demolition of old buildings within municipal limits during this period to minimise dust emissions.
In addition to restricting construction, the state has limited the entry and movement of heavy vehicles in city limits to curb emissions. Police and transport authorities will step up inspections to ensure vehicles meet emissions standards.
Authorities are also conducting dust control operations, including regular water sprinkling along major roads and highways to suppress dust stirred up by traffic. As part of broader anti-pollution efforts, roadside food stalls and hotels have been banned from using coal or firewood, and open burning of garbage, dry leaves, or plastic is prohibited.
Officials warn that anyone violating the new rules could face strict penalties, and enforcement teams will carry out regular checks to ensure compliance.