MCD seals 84 factories, cuts power to 7 units in citywide crackdown on industrial pollution

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has sealed 84 factories and disconnected electricity to seven industrial units across the city for violating environmental and zoning regulations, a civic body official announced on Wednesday. The crackdown is part of a citywide campaign to combat industrial pollution and curb illegal operations in non-conforming areas.

In September, the MCD conducted inspections on 520 industrial units located in non-conforming zones—areas where 70 percent of the plots are used for industrial activities permitted under zoning laws. Following the inspections, 84 units were found to be in violation of the norms and were sealed.

The MCD has identified 27 non-conforming or unplanned industrial areas across Delhi. In addition to sealing units, electricity was disconnected in seven other factories for further violations. More actions are expected in the coming weeks, particularly in the Rithala area in north-west Delhi, where additional non-compliance is anticipated.

When asked about the impact of these factories on pollution in the Yamuna River, an MCD official remarked, "All polluting industries, regardless of location, contribute to the pollution of the Yamuna. The MCD is taking a comprehensive approach to tackling such industries." Pollution control, especially cleaning the Yamuna, has been a significant focus for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led government in Delhi, which also manages the MCD.

Despite these efforts, untreated industrial waste and sewage continue to pollute the Yamuna, leading to severe contamination, toxic foam, and adverse effects on crops and water supplies in nearby areas. Delhi has 24 approved industrial areas and 35 sewage treatment plants maintained by various civic bodies, including the Delhi Jal Board. However, the city still struggles to tackle the environmental degradation of the river.

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