Fri Nov 21 19:39:18 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has fined the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) ₹3.8 lakh for repeated violations of dust-control and pollution-mitigation rules at DMRC construction sites. Inspections revealed uncovered materials, inadequate dust suppression, and other violations. Delhi’s air quality remains in the “very poor” category, prompting intensified checks and a “zero tolerance” policy from the government. Air quality is expected to remain poor for the next few days, with “severe” pollution in some surrounding cities.

News Article:

Delhi Metro Fined as Air Quality Plummets, Government Promises Crackdown

New Delhi – The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has issued a hefty fine of ₹3.8 lakh to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) following multiple violations of pollution control regulations at its construction sites. The fines, levied on Friday, November 21, 2025, come as Delhi grapples with “very poor” air quality and the government promises a “zero tolerance” approach to pollution.

Inspections by the MCD’s south and central zones revealed a range of infractions, including uncovered construction materials, insufficient dust suppression systems, missing barricades, and poor housekeeping at various DMRC locations. A total of 28 challans were issued, 24 under National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines and others for violating Solid Waste Management Rules.

“We are committed to enforcing strict environmental standards,” stated Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa. “Environmental compensation of up to ₹5 lakh will be levied on agencies disregarding dust-mitigation norms. Thousands of enforcement personnel are conducting daily inspections across the city.”

Delhi’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 364 (“very poor”) on Friday. The Central government’s Air Quality Early Warning System predicts that the situation will persist, forecasting “very poor” air quality until at least Monday. Several cities in North India are also experiencing alarming levels of pollution, with “severe” conditions reported in Hapur, Meerut, and Ghaziabad.

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