Guwahati is grappling with rising pollution levels due to the blatant disregard for environmental guidelines by key authorities such as the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC). Despite clear mandates from pollution control authorities, these agencies continue to flout regulations, worsening the city's air and environmental quality. One of the major contributors to pollution is the unchecked dust from construction activities. As per pollution board guidelines, all construction work should be covered to minimise dust emissions. However, PWD’s ongoing projects across the city stand as glaring examples of non-compliance. Construction sites are often left exposed, allowing dust to spread unchecked, creating serious health hazards for residents. The thick layer of dust settling on roads, houses, and marketplaces is a testament to this negligence.
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GMC, on the other hand, is responsible for maintaining cleanliness in the city, but its inefficiencies are evident. Garbage collection vehicles transport waste to dumping grounds, but in clear violation of pollution norms, these trucks are rarely covered. As a result, trash spills onto the streets, spreading filth and emitting unbearable odors. This practice not only deteriorates sanitation but also contributes to air and land pollution. The failure of these agencies to adhere to pollution control measures has led to deteriorating environmental conditions in Guwahati. Authorities must take immediate corrective actions—PWD should implement dust suppression mechanisms, and GMC must ensure all waste is transported in covered vehicles. Strict enforcement and regular monitoring are essential to curb pollution and safeguard public health. It is high time the administration prioritises environmental responsibility before the situation spirals out of control.
