Surat: The agency executing the Dumas Seaface project was slapped with a penalty of Rs 5 lakh on Monday after officials found inadequate measures in place to control dust pollution at the construction site.Municipal commissioner Shalini Agarwal inspected the location to review progress and noted that dust suppression systems and waste management protocols were not being followed.The penalty comes as part of the Surat Municipal Corporation’s (SMC) intensified crackdown on construction sites failing to comply with pollution control norms. Since Thursday, SMC teams have inspected 266 construction projects across the city, of which 184 have been fined, resulting in penalties totalling Rs 56 lakh.On the first day alone, officials collected Rs 44 lakh in fines from 145 non-compliant sites. Most violations involved the absence of mandatory shade nets, which are essential for preventing dust and debris from spreading into surrounding areas.Varachha and Sarthana zones recorded the highest number of violations, emerging as key hotspots where enforcement has been tightened due to dense construction activity.“The penalties were imposed for not installing shade nets and for improper dumping of construction waste. As per state government directives on controlling air pollution, SMC has adopted a strict approach,” a senior SMC official said.Officials added that contractors working on public infrastructure projects will also face penalties if found violating pollution control norms. They have already been notified to ensure compliance.
