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The Environment Ministry has asked major infrastructure agencies, including the NHAI (National Highway Authority of India, to implement measures for dust mitigation by March 31 or face suspension of construction work. In letters sent last month to the heads of NHAI, NBCC and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), the ministry cited recent rule amendments that make it mandatory for projects needing environment clearance to ensure mitigation of dust. The rules state: “No building or infrastructure project requiring environmental clearance shall be implemented without approved Environmental Management Plan inclusive of dust mitigation measures.” The rules are applicable in all cities where particulate matter, PM 10 and PM 2.5, exceeds limits prescribed in the National Ambient Air Quality standards.