The Bandhwari landfill has once again become a hotspot of environmental concern after a recent fire released hazardous smoke, raising air pollution levels in nearby areas. In October 2024, the landfill experienced multiple fires. On October 12, a massive blaze resulted in dense smoke enveloping areas near the Gurgaon-Faridabad road and upscale residential colonies off…

The Smart Grid Project in Gurugram, initiated to modernise the city’s power infrastructure, has faced significant delays over the past eight years. Originally envisioned to enhance real-time electricity monitoring, reduce transmission losses, and improve energy efficiency, the project has encountered several challenges. The project has been hindered by bureaucratic delays, including opposition from residents regarding…

The newly appointed Municipal Commissioner of Gurgaon has prioritized sanitation, efficient waste management, and community engagement in his reform agenda. Initiatives include deploying modern waste collection systems, establishing a real-time grievance redressal platform, and conducting citizen awareness drives to foster collaboration between the administration and residents.

In November 2024, Gurugram’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remained elevated, with particulate matter (PM2.5) levels continuing to exceed safe limits for extended periods. This sustained pollution spike was driven by a combination of factors, including the seasonal stubble burning in neighboring states, the ongoing construction activities in the city, and high vehicle emissions, exacerbated by…

Meanwhile, the long-awaited revamp of MG Road, originally planned for completion in December 2023, hasbeen delayed yet again. The ₹11.3 crore project includes enhancements such as wider pedestrian pathways,dedicated cycle tracks, green belts, and modernized bus stops. Despite its potential to significantly improvethe commute experience, construction has been marred by contractor issues, funding bottlenecks, andpollution-related…

Gurgaon’s first pedestrian footbridge on the Old Delhi-Gurgaon Road has been inaugurated, addressing the pressing need for safe pedestrian crossings in high-traffic zones. Equipped with modern amenities such asantiskid surfaces, ramps for differently-abled individuals, and energy-efficient LED lighting for night use, this footbridge marks a significant step towards safer urban mobility. The initiative comes in…

The Haryana government has introduced a new framework aimed at reducing farm fires, which significantly contribute to air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region during winter. The state’s agriculture department estimates that 38.8 lakh acres of paddy will be cultivated this year, generating 81 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of crop residue. Traditionally, farmers burn this stubble…

To improve the quality and reliability of power supply and address the rising power demand in Gurugram and Faridabad, the Ministry of Power has approved projects worth Rs. 3,600 crore under the Government of India’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme. These projects will modernise power distribution in Manesar, Badshahpur in Gurugram, and Old Faridabad, NIT, Ballabhgarh,…

Bry-Air, in partnership with I Am Gurgaon NGO, has launched an eco-restoration initiative in Aravalli Nagar Van, aimed at promoting sustainability and biodiversity. Inaugurated on September 25 as part of Bry-Air’s 60th anniversary celebrations, the project focuses on rehabilitating degraded land and reintroducing native species. It will also enhance groundwater recharge by creating wetlands for…

Gurgaon’s dyeing units, concentrated in Sector 103, Basai, and Sector 36, continue to illegally discharge toxic effluents into the Najafgarh drain, eventually polluting the Yamuna River. Though these units appear abandoned, with gates locked, they remain active with workers accessing the premises through small gaps, while dyed garments dry behind closed doors. Residents report that…

The Supreme Court has issued notices to panchayats of four Gurgaon villages and the Haryana Forest Development Corporation (HFDC) after learning that compensatory afforestation (CA) for a highway project, which involved felling 12,000 trees, had not begun. The CA was mandated two years ago following the National Highways Authority of India’s (NHAI) tree felling to…

A recent study, part of The Real Urban Emissions (TRUE) Initiative, has shown that actual emissions from vehicles on Delhi and Gurugram roads far exceed those recorded in laboratory tests. Using remote sensing technology, the study, conducted in partnership with local authorities, found that nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from BS-VI vehicles are significantly lower than…

In July 2024, Gurgaon’s air quality deteriorated significantly, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 108, the worst since 2021. This ‘moderate’ level marked a sharp rise from July 2023’s AQI of 89. Environmentalists and residents have raised concerns as no ‘good’ air quality days were reported throughout the month. Key factors behind the decline…

EVFY, a new player in India’s electric vehicle (EV) market, has launched its first fast charging station in Sector 73, Gurgaon. This marks the beginning of their ambitious plan to establish 100 charging stations across the region. The station, located at The One Sales Gallery on Southern Peripheral Road, features dual gun capability, RFID-enabled secure…

The long-awaited revamp of a 2.5km stretch of MG Road, aimed at improving infrastructure with wider footpaths, cycle tracks, green belts, and bus stops, is still not completed over a year after work began. Initially slated for December 2023, the project, costing Rs 11.3 crore, has faced multiple delays and is only 75% finished. It…

The Gurugram Metro Expansion Project is set to enhance intercity transportation with a 28.5-kilometer extension from Huda City Centre to Cyber City. Recently approved by the Union Cabinet, the project will feature 27 elevated stations, including key areas like Sector 22, Krishna Chowk, and Subhash Chowk. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone on…

In August 2024, Gurgaon experienced its wettest month in over a decade, recording nearly 340mm of rainfall—an 84% surplus compared to the usual 185.1mm. This sharp increase contrasts with previous years ofsignificant deficits, such as 2023 and 2022, which saw 62% and 65% less rainfall, respectively. Meteorologistsattribute this year’s heavy rainfall to an active monsoon…

Gurgaon was abuzz with activity in anticipation of the state elections scheduled for October 5. The Gurgaon district consists of 4 assembly seats namely Gurgaon, Badshahpur, Sohna and Pataudi. Some of the electoral issues that were discussed were economic growth, healthcare, education liveability, and rural development with farmer-friendly policies. Citizen groups also fielded their concerns…