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The Noida Authority has suspended all non-essential construction works following the implementation of Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The decision came as air quality in several sectors of Noida reached the "severe" category, with AQI levels above 400. BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles are now banned, while ready-mix concrete plants, stone crushers, and demolition works remain closed until further notice. Strict penalties will apply for non-compliance.
The Noida Authority has enforced stringent restrictions on construction and vehicular activities after the CAQM implemented Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan across Delhi-NCR. The measure was taken as air quality levels in the city worsened sharply, placing Noida among the severely affected regions. Advertisement
According to an official statement, all construction and demolition activities have been halted immediately, except those related to essential public infrastructure such as metro rail projects, hospitals, and flyovers. The authority stated that these steps are necessary to address rising pollution levels caused by suspended dust and vehicular emissions.
Recent data from monitoring stations recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 407 in Sector 1, 425 in Sector 125, 388 in Sector 62, and 415 in Sector 116 well above the "severe" threshold. The main pollutants identified were PM 2.5 and PM 10.
Under the current restrictions, BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers are prohibited from operating in Noida. Ready-mix concrete plants, stone crushers, and demolition sites have also been instructed to suspend operations until air quality improves. The authority has cautioned that violations will invite legal action and monetary penalties as per the established rules.
The CAQM has advised residents, builders, and government agencies to strictly follow GRAP Stage III norms. These include minimizing dust-generating activities, improving waste handling at sites, and ensuring mechanical sweeping and water sprinkling on major roads to control particulate matter.
GRAP is a graded framework introduced by the CAQM to tackle pollution across the National Capital Region. It escalates in four stages depending on AQI levels Stage I (Poor), Stage II (Very Poor), Stage III (Severe), and Stage IV (Severe+). The latest stage was triggered after pollutant levels crossed 400, reflecting the worsening winter smog across NCR.
Officials added that while essential infrastructure projects such as hospitals, metro lines, and national security works are permitted to continue, they must comply with dust mitigation and waste disposal norms. The restrictions will remain in force until further improvement in air quality is recorded.
Real estate developers in Noida have expressed concern that the extended suspension of construction could delay project timelines and affect deliveries for homebuyers. Similar restrictions have also been implemented in neighbouring areas of Delhi, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad under the same directive.
Source PTI
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