In a decisive move to tackle deteriorating air quality, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has unveiled a plan to install air purifiers at major public locations across the city. The announcement was made by Mayor Sulochana Das on Sunday.
First Phase Targets High-Traffic Zones
The initial phase of this anti-pollution drive will focus on two critical areas: Jaydev Vihar and AG Square. Mayor Das revealed that the civic body has already held detailed discussions with the Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) to formalize and execute this initiative. This step marks a shift towards technological intervention in the city's ongoing battle against airborne pollutants.
Current Mitigation Efforts and a Call for Collective Action
Alongside the new plan, the BMC continues with its existing measures to control dust. A key tactic involves sprinkling water in areas where mechanical sweeping is underway, effectively preventing dust from becoming airborne.
However, Mayor Sulochana Das emphasized that the responsibility does not lie with the corporation alone. She stressed that tackling air pollution requires collective vigilance from every citizen. Highlighting a common urban practice, she specifically urged residents to reconsider excessive private vehicle usage.
"It is not only BMC's responsibility," Das stated, appealing to the public. She pointed out that maintaining four to five vehicles in a single household is not ideal and encouraged families to limit their use to help reduce vehicular emissions, a significant contributor to urban air pollution.
The Road Ahead for a Cleaner Bhubaneswar
The announcement signals a proactive approach by the city administration to adopt modern solutions alongside conventional methods. The installation of air purifiers in public spaces is expected to provide localized clean air zones, offering respite in heavily congested areas. The success of this initiative will largely depend on its implementation scale and the complementary cooperation from the city's residents in adopting sustainable practices.
