delhi-to-deploy-200-anti-smog-guns-for-pollution-control

Delhi's rising pollution levels have prompted a new action plan, with Environment Minister Gopal Rai announcing the deployment of around 200 mobile anti-smog guns across the city to control dust pollution.

 

In a conversation with the media, Rai emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing various sources of pollution, including dust, vehicle emissions, and biomass burning. These measures reflect the city’s response to worsening air quality, especially during the winter season when pollution levels typically rise.

 

The anti-smog guns will operate citywide, spraying water across all assembly constituencies in three eight-hour shifts. By maintaining continuous operation, the government aims to maximise dust suppression, with water sprinkling done regularly and on a large scale.

 

Rai noted that while the spraying used to be limited to one shift, expanding it to three shifts would allow for better dust control throughout the day and night.

 

In addition to tackling dust, vehicle emissions are another significant focus of the government's efforts. The “Red Light On, Gaadi Off” campaign is one such initiative designed to reduce idle emissions at traffic signals.

 

To further promote this initiative, a sticker campaign has been launched, targeting auto-rickshaws and other vehicles, encouraging drivers to switch off engines at red lights and conserve fuel while reducing emissions.

 

Delhi’s air quality is currently poor to very poor in many parts of the city. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the Air Quality Index (AQI) in areas like Anand Vihar and RK Puram reached concerning levels on Saturday, recording AQIs of 380 and 346, respectively.

 

Similarly, Dwarka and IGI Airport T3 areas reported AQIs above 300, classified as very poor by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Following Diwali, the city saw a significant rise in pollution levels, with AQIs in many areas exceeding 350.

 

The heightened pollution, primarily attributed to fireworks and seasonal factors, has raised health concerns, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.