No NOC will be required to apply for electricity meters in 1731 unauthorized colonies in Delhi: CM Atishi

"There are 1731 unauthorised colonies in Delhi. Ten years ago the situation in these unauthorised colonies was really bad. In the last ten years, every effort has been made to provide all facilities to people living in these colonies," said the Chief Minister.

Slamming the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the CM said, "In the last year, those living in these colonies have been struggling to get electricity connections. Why? Because BJP's Central government's DDA issued an order that residents of unauthorized colonies will get power connection only when they get a NOC from the DDA. As a result, in the last year, when residents of these colonies applied for electricity meters, they had to struggle, while also having to pay bribes to get NOC."

"Delhi govt has decided that no NOC will be required to apply for electricity meters in the 1731 unauthorized colonies in Delhi. DISCOMs have been issued orders in this regard," ensured the CM.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Delhi Government announced the strict implementation of measures under the Graded Response Action Plan-1 (GRAP-1) to improve air quality in the national capital, according to a statement from the Delhi Chief Minister's Office.

The announcement followed a high-level meeting chaired by Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, with Environment Minister Gopal Rai and senior officials in attendance.

According to the statement, 99 teams will inspect construction sites for dust control. The Public Welfare Department (PWD) will deploy 200 anti-smog guns, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) 30, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) 14, and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) 80. Additionally, Delhi Police will assign extra personnel to traffic-prone areas, and Home Guards will be on standby if needed.

Chief Minister Atishi also urged Delhi residents to carpool, refrain from burning crackers and waste, and report pollution incidents via the Green Delhi app.

CM Atishi highlighted the improvements in air quality this year. She stated that if we look at AQI and pollution levels in Delhi from January 1 to October 12 this year, we've had 200 good AQI days--an improvement compared to the last few years. This better air quality has been achieved through the efforts of Delhi residents and the pollution control measures implemented by the Delhi Government. (ANI)