Bhubaneswar, January 9: The Odisha government is set to extend the restriction on construction activities in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, limiting them from 6:00 pm to 10:00 am to reduce air pollution. The ban will remain in effect until June, announced Ganesh Ram Khuntia, Minister of Forest, Environment & Climate Change.

"We are taking necessary precautions to address the pollution issue," Khuntia stated. "The government is actively monitoring the situation. This is the peak work season, and big projects are underway. We have introduced this measure to mitigate temporary local disturbances. The restrictions will remain in place until June, with a review after the rains, based on Air Quality Index (AQI) levels."

The Minister also emphasized that the government is closely tracking the AQI in the twin cities. If pollution levels do not improve, the ban could be extended beyond June. "Air quality has been poor for more than a month, with both cities' AQI falling into the 'very poor' category twice during the last five days of December, raising serious health concerns," he added.

To further reduce pollution, all construction activities will be suspended from 6 pm to 10 am, for at least a week, in a bid to limit dust and air contaminants, particularly during the night and early morning hours. The government is implementing these restrictions efficiently to control pollution while minimizing inconvenience to the public.

The situation will be reviewed regularly, and the government will make further decisions based on AQI trends and environmental conditions.