Baripada, Jan 7: In response to growing concerns over air pollution, the Mayurbhanj district administration has introduced a series of stringent measures to address deteriorating air quality in Baripada, one of Odisha’s previously considered greener urban centres.
The initiative comes after the town, along with Balasore and Talcher, was listed among India’s five most polluted urban centres in recent weeks. This inclusion has added a new dimension to the state's air quality debate, especially considering Baripada's proximity to the lush 4,000-sq-km Similipal Biosphere Reserve, its otherwise green surroundings, and the absence of significant industrial activity.
With the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing 300 on multiple occasions over the past fortnight, the district administration has moved swiftly to take action. On January 6, 2026, in a notification issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), Collector Hema Kanta Say imposed prohibitory and regulatory measures, which will be implemented immediately.
The guidelines, aimed at curbing pollution and protecting public health, include the following key measures:
Construction and Demolition Work: All construction activities, including road work and building projects, must implement pollution control measures. Demolition and earthworks are required to use dust suppression techniques.
Waste Disposal: Construction and demolition waste must be disposed of according to the Construction and Demolition Waste Rules, 2016.
Water Sprinkling: Municipalities, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and other executing agencies must ensure water sprinkling every 3 hours on major roads and construction sites to minimize dust.
Dust Control at Construction Sites: Wet drilling and controlled blasting will be mandatory for mineral extraction and roadwork projects.
Open Burning Restrictions: Open burning of waste, coal in dhabas, and any open fires are strictly prohibited.
Stubble Burning Ban: The Chief District Agriculture Officer will enforce the prohibition of stubble burning and crop residue burning on agricultural land.
Firecracker Restrictions: The bursting of firecrackers within the district will be restricted to prevent further pollution.
Transportation Guidelines: Vehicles transporting construction materials like fly ash, sand, or crusher dust must be covered with tarpaulin to prevent dust dispersal on national highways, state highways, and city roads.
Brick Kilns and Crusher Units: No brick kiln units will operate without valid permission. All crusher units are required to install green fencing, wind-breaking walls, and dust suppression systems, including the installation of CCTV cameras.
Encouraging Eco-Friendly Transport: Citizens are encouraged to use public transport, bicycles, e-vehicles, or other non-polluting traditional modes of transport.
Avoid Unnecessary Construction: Construction activities that contribute excessively to dust pollution should be minimized or avoided.
These strict measures will remain in force for the next seven days, according to the notification. The administration hopes these actions will significantly reduce air pollution and improve air quality in Baripada and surrounding areas, ensuring a healthier environment for residents.
