Bhubaneswar, 06 January (H.S.): In a bid to control the rising air pollution in the state capital, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued stringent measures to improve air quality. As per the new directives, anyone found burning waste in open spaces will be fined ₹5,000.

According to BMC guidelines, the use of firewood and coal for cooking has been completely prohibited in hotels and roadside eateries across the city. Establishments have been advised to switch to clean and environmentally friendly fuel alternatives to reduce emissions.

In addition, BMC has directed the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) to ensure regular washing of buses at depots and terminals to minimise dust-related pollution.

The civic body has also advised schools to use clean fuel for the preparation of mid-day meals. Furthermore, departments concerned have been instructed to carry out regular water sprinkling in dust-prone areas to curb the spread of particulate matter.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda