ppcb Holds Interactive Session With Builders To Promote Sustainable Urban Development In Zirakpur

May28,2026 | Jagrati Lahar Bureau | Zirakpur/chandigarh,

In a proactive initiative aimed at strengthening environmental compliance through awareness and collaboration, the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), Regional Office SAS Nagar, organised an interactive meeting with the Builder Welfare Association at Zirakpur.

The session was conducted under the supervision of Er. Gursharan Dass Garg, Superintending Environmental Engineer (SEE), and Er. Kanwaldeep Kaur, Executive Engineer (EE).

The meeting focused on simplifying environmental norms and guiding builders on regulatory compliances related to construction and housing projects.

The officials emphasized that the objective of the Board is not merely enforcement, but facilitating environmentally responsible and sustainable urban development through better coordination and transparency.

During the session, the SEE stressed the importance of complying with Environmental Clearance (EC) conditions during both construction and operational phases of projects. It was advised that the environmental norms of the construction phase be put on wide display to constantly remind the workforce to implement and enforce. Builders were encouraged to independently read, understand and fill application forms accurately instead of depending entirely on third parties, thereby improving communication and ensuring smoother compliance processes.

Special emphasis was laid on preparedness for the upcoming monsoon season. Builders were advised to clean rainwater harvesting pits and ensure that only surface runoff water enters recharge systems to protect groundwater quality. The Board also highlighted the need for efficient operation of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), reuse of treated water in dual plumbing and gardening, and strict avoidance of unauthorized discharge of domestic effluent.

The officials further encouraged extensive plantation drives within and around residential complexes and advocated for minimizing solid waste generation by adopting eco-friendly materials and sustainable lifestyle practices.

Participants appreciated the Board’s transparent and approachable communication style.

Mr. Harish Gupta, President of the Builders Association, Zirakpur, assured full cooperation from the builders’ fraternity and emphasized the need for regular stakeholder interactions. He also highlighted the growing requirement for additional STPs in Zirakpur to support sustainable urban expansion.

The Board Chairperson Reena Gupta commented:

"Environmental protection becomes truly effective when regulators and stakeholders work together with trust and shared responsibility. Our aim is to build a culture of environmental compliance through awareness, transparency and practical guidance so that Punjab’s urban growth remains sustainable, resilient and citizen-friendly. Such dialogues are essential to bridge communication gaps and create long-term environmental stewardship." Appreciating the initiative, Harish Gupta said, “It was really an educative session for builders and I hope there will be improvement to contribute for the better environment in the area. We are also thankful and grateful to the visionary honourable Chairperson madam, who took initiative to fill the communication gap between pollution control board Punjab and builders."

The PPCB reaffirmed its commitment to continuing such outreach initiatives across Punjab to promote participatory governance and environmentally conscious development practices.

Ppcb-Holds-Interactive-Session-With-Builders-To-Promote-Sustainable-Urban-Development-In-Zirakpur