Balasore, Jan 5: Amid a sharp rise in air pollution levels, the Office of the Collector and District Magistrate, Balasore, has issued an order to curb activities contributing to deteriorating air quality.

The restrictions will be enforced across Balasore Municipality and other urban local bodies (ULBs) for a period of seven days, with the possibility of extension depending on the situation.

The order has been issued by Collector and District Magistrate Suryawanshi Mayur Vikas for immediate preventive measures to protect public health during the ongoing high-pollution phase.

Under the directives, all construction activities have been banned between 6 p.m. and 10 a.m., while demolition and earthwork are completely prohibited within municipal limits. Entry of heavy vehicles, including trucks, into towns and ULB areas has been restricted. Vehicles transporting minerals or coal must adhere to special conditions, and all trucks plying on major roads are required to be covered with tarpaulin to prevent dust dispersion.

To control dust pollution, municipalities, ULBs, and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have been instructed to sprinkle water on roads at least three times a day. The order also strictly prohibits open burning of waste, coal, or any other material.

Brick kilns will be allowed to operate only after obtaining prior permission, and all construction sites must ensure adequate water sprinkling to suppress dust.

Daily monitoring of compliance will be carried out by the Sub-Divisional Magistrates of Balasore and Nilgiri, who will submit reports to the Collector’s office. The police, municipal authorities, and the Regional Transport Office (RTO) have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the order.