Controlling dust pollution will be the Delhi government’s focus as the air quality index (AQI) deteriorates, with Chief Minister Atishi declaring on Tuesday that 99 teams will audit commercial and government construction sites for compliance.
A day after Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan was implemented in Delhi-NCR, Atishi organized a meeting to assess its effectiveness. Following the meeting, Atishi stated that the city has experienced an increase in “good air days” this year.
With studies undertaken by many agencies, including IIT-Kanpur, indicating that dust is one of the principal pollutants in Delhi during the winter, dust mitigation is critical to ensure that the AQI does not fall further.
Speaking to reporters, Atishi stated, “Thirty-three teams from the revenue and industry departments, as well as the DPCC (Delhi Pollution Control Committee), will inspect private and government construction sites to ensure compliance with dust-mitigation measures.” These teams will submit their results to the ‘Green War Room’, which monitors air quality management measures around the city.”
The MCD also sent 79 teams throughout the day to monitor the removal and correct disposal of construction and demolition waste, as well as 75 teams at night, she said. In addition, 116 teams will work around the clock to prevent biomass burning, which contributes significantly to pollution levels, according to the chief minister.
Furthermore, the PWD will deploy 200 anti-smog guns, the DMRC 80, the MCD 30 and the NCRTC 14. According to Atishi, they will help to reduce road dust and enhance air quality. Meanwhile, traffic police have been told to identify congestion areas and deploy additional people as needed, according to Atishi, who also stated that if additional assistance is required, home guards will be sent to monitor traffic flow and prevent vehicle emissions from contributing to pollution.
Representatives from DPCC, PWD, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, and the tax department were among those present at the meeting.