NCR construction ban to delay projects, hit livelihoods

New Delhi: The construction ban in NCR is expected to delay real estate projects, but exempting Rera-approved projects from GRAP could balance public health, economic stability, and essential development, said industry leaders.

This year, however, some of the 'non-polluting' work at the construction sites during the pollution is allowed as per the guidelines issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).

"Pollution control is essential, but a blanket ban on construction affects livelihoods and delays projects that already adhere to strict pollution-control standards as required by Rera. The real estate sector, one of the nation's largest employers of unskilled labour, suffers financially, with each halt impacting project timelines, budgets, and developer obligations to financial institutions," said Manoj Gaur, chairman, Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India (Credai).




One of Rera's stringent conditions includes timely delivery of projects or paying late delivery penalties, making timely completion critical. "Concrete steps should be taken to reduce the high levels of pollution, and developers for the time being should restrict themselves to non-polluting activities on site only, such as carpentry and plumbing fittings, wooden flooring, aluminium and glass fittings, internal wiring, sanitary fittings, and other non-polluting interior work and external work like horticulture, to make sure that while on one hand work and delivery timelines promised to homebuyers are not hindered and at the same time there is no adverse impact on the environment," said Amit Modi, director, County Group.

As winter sets in, air quality in northern India takes a sharp turn for the worse. The drop in wind speeds traps pollutants in the air, while smoke from stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana adds to the crisis.


With GRAP Stage III now in effect, all construction activities are currently on hold.

"While we align with the government's objective of implementing effective pollution control measures, we also advocate for a nuanced approach that balances environmental concerns with the practical realities of the construction industry," said Kushagra Ansal, director, Ansal Housing.

Although the construction ban typically lasts only a few days, developers often need additional time to remobilise their labour force and restart activities.

"While halting high-emission activities, we are ensuring that essential non-polluting work such as carpentry, plumbing, and interior fittings continues uninterrupted, maintaining project timelines for buyers and investors. This approach reflects our dual commitment to environmental stewardship and timely delivery," said Harsh Gupta, CEO of Sundream Group.