Delhi Launches 21-Point Winter Action Plan with Drone Monitoring to Combat Air Pollution

Delhi's Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, announced on Thursday a comprehensive 21-point Winter Action Plan aimed at tackling the city's severe air pollution. The plan includes innovative measures such as real-time drone monitoring of 13 major hotspots, the formation of a specialized task force, and other strategic initiatives to improve air quality during the colder months.

During a press conference following a high-level meeting with representatives from 35 departments, Rai outlined the proactive approach adopted this year. "This year, for the first time, we will be using drones to monitor pollution at 13 major hotspots across Delhi. A special task force will also be formed to tackle air pollution more effectively. These measures are part of our 21-point plan to ensure a cleaner winter for the residents of Delhi," Rai stated.

The Winter Action Plan will address critical issues such as vehicular emissions, dust control, stubble burning, and industrial pollution. Each involved department has been assigned specific tasks and must submit its action plan by September 12. Key measures include promoting work-from-home policies, preparing for the odd-even vehicle scheme, and exploring artificial rain to settle pollutants.

Rai also highlighted improvements in Delhi's air quality, noting a 30 percent reduction in pollution levels over the past nine years and an increase in the number of days with "good" to "moderate" air quality from 110 in 2016 to 206 in 2023. The new plan builds on last year's 15-point strategy and includes stricter vehicle emission controls, enhanced dust management practices, and measures to reduce open burning of waste.

The Environment Department will coordinate the efforts across departments, supported by a real-time source apportionment study to identify and address pollution sources. Rai emphasized the need for collaboration with neighboring states and the central government to address cross-border pollution issues, particularly from stubble burning in surrounding areas.

"Dialogue with the Centre and neighbouring states is a crucial part of our plan. This is not a problem Delhi can solve alone," Rai concluded.