New Delhi: In a decisive move to tackle Delhi’s rising air pollution, Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa has announced that all high-rise buildings, hotels, commercial complexes, airports, and construction sites must install anti-smog guns. The directive aims to curb worsening pollution levels in the capital.
New Pollution Control Measures
Chairing a high-level meeting with officials from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), Sirsa emphasized the urgent need for stringent pollution control measures. He also directed authorities to gather data on major pollution contributors, including Delhi Airport, and prepare a detailed roadmap to tackle pollution.
Sirsa warned that new laws could be introduced if necessary to ensure compliance. He also mandated the MCD to compile a list of existing and under-construction high-rise buildings that will be subject to strict environmental regulations.
Green Transition & Future Plans
To further reduce emissions, the Delhi government has outlined several initiatives:
10,000 electric vehicles to be introduced by 2026.
Transition of all vehicles at Delhi Airport to green alternatives.
Development of parks and forests on cleaned landfill sites.
Expansion of green cover around major establishments.
Possible implementation of cloud seeding during peak smog months.
Additionally, leading institutions like IIT Delhi and other colleges will actively contribute to pollution control strategies.
Experts Call for Broader Action
While the initiative is a step forward, environmentalist Bhavreen Kandhari cautioned that anti-smog guns and water sprinkling are temporary fixes and not long-term solutions. She urged the government to control emissions at the source, focusing on industries, construction activities, and fossil fuel plants within the city.
Sirsa acknowledged that 50% of Delhi’s pollution originates from within the city, stressing that Delhi must address its own pollution problems before seeking action from others.
With air pollution being a major election issue, this move signals the Delhi government’s commitment to finding sustainable solutions for cleaner air in the capital.
