Air pollution: Ban on entry of trucks in Delhi lifted but must be regulated, says NGT

NEW DELHI: The National Green Tribunal on Friday lifted the ban on the entry of trucks in Delhi. The green court, however, added that the entry must be properly regulated.

The ban had been imposed on November 9 after the pollution levels touched 'severe plus' category. 

As per the orders, the Delhi Traffic Police and the Municipal Corporations of Delhi had been asked to prohibit the entry of heavy and medium goods vehicles, except those carrying essential commodities in the national capital. 

The NGT also lifted its ban on construction activities in Delhi-NCR but refused to lift its ban on industrial activities causing pollution in the Delhi-National Capital Region region.

"All directions in relation to emissions from industry, burning of waste and crop residue shall continue to be enforced," a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar said.

The tribunal also directed the neighbouring states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan to submit their action plan on steps taken to curb pollution within two weeks.

It gave a green signal to the construction of the Eastern Peripheral Expressway but said no dust pollution should be caused.

The NGT had earlier asked the city government to identify the most polluted areas and sprinkle water, while allowing non- polluting industries and those manufacturing essential goods to operate in Delhi-NCR.