Strict Action on Pollution: CM Rekha Gupta Issues Tough Instructions to Metro on Dust Control and Cleanliness

Negligence in Pollution Control Will Not Be Tolerated; Action Will Be Taken: CM Rekha Gupta

War Against Pollution in Delhi: Metro Must Set an Example, Says CM Rekha Gupta

New Delhi, December 2025 : Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta today issued strict directions to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to mandatorily implement effective dust-control measures at all its construction sites. She instructed that under no circumstances should construction activities lead to pollution.

The Chief Minister has also directed the Metro to ensure regular cleaning and removal of garbage from beneath its elevated routes. She stated clearly that the government and its departments are working on a war footing against pollution, and any negligence by any department contributing to pollution will not be tolerated. The Chief Minister said she would soon visit the ongoing Metro construction sites, and if any negligence is found, stringent action will be taken against the Metro.

The Chief Minister held a high-level review meeting today with senior officials of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation. Transport Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh, Chief Secretary Rajeev Verma, and senior officials from various departments of the Delhi Government were also present. During the meeting, the Chief Minister expressed displeasure over continuous complaints that heavy dust is rising from most Metro construction sites and that adequate dust-mitigation measures have not been implemented. Citizens have also complained that even when Metro work is completed, roads, footpaths and other infrastructure have not been repaired, resulting in pollution and causing traffic obstructions. The Chief Minister said she herself has observed heaps of garbage under the Metro’s elevated routes, indicating negligence in maintaining cleanliness.

She further remarked that it appears the Metro uses its elevated structures primarily for advertising, while cleanliness is being ignored. She cited specific examples of such elevated routes and said that such negligence would not be tolerated. In the meeting, Metro officials informed her that special attention is being paid to construction sites and dust-control measures are being implemented. They also stated that cleaning work under the elevated routes has been initiated. Although some of these areas fall under the responsibility of other departments, the Metro has now begun clearing the waste on its own.

The Chief Minister issued clear instructions to the DMRC to mandatorily use modern technologies for dust control at construction sites. Construction materials should be covered, regular water sprinkling must be ensured, and soil or debris must not spill onto the roads. She said that an institution as reputed as the Metro is expected to become a model for environmental protection, not appearing to be part of the problem. She also stated clearly that she will conduct surprise inspections of construction sites, and any negligence will lead to direct action.

The Chief Minister said the Delhi Government is working on a war footing against pollution, and therefore negligence by anyone will not be tolerated. She emphasised that her government is committed to ensuring that there is no compromise with the health of Delhi’s residents. Clean air is a fundamental right, and the Delhi Government is taking every necessary step to protect this right.

She added that the government is not merely making policies but is ensuring accountability of every department at the ground level. She stated firmly that the government is operating not in a formal manner but in a real war mode against pollution, and no government department or agency will be allowed any leniency. In categorical terms, she said that whether it is the Metro, the Municipal Corporation, the Public Works Department, or any other agency, if any negligence contributing to pollution is found, strict and exemplary action will be taken.