The Delhi government has initiated the installation of mist sprayers on electric poles across the capital to tackle dust pollution. Out of 2,524 identified poles, work has commenced at several locations, with multiple agencies collectively covering 1,160 poles so far, according to official data.
Progress by Agencies
The Public Works Department (PWD) has installed mist sprayers on 305 poles at identified pollution hotspots. Plans are underway to extend the system to Barapullah Phase III once civil works are completed. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has fitted mist sprayers at 131 metro stations, while Delhi Airport has installed the system at 120 locations. Civic agencies are also installing mist sprayers along key stretches such as Copernicus Marg, Aurobindo Marg, Akbar Road, and the Gole Market area.
Government Statements
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated, “Our plan is to install the mist sprayers at the identified locations in the first phase within six months to deal with dust pollution.” An official added that during intense heat periods, mist sprayers will not be used to conserve water.
DMRC's Role
DMRC has deployed 30 anti-smog guns at 26 elevated stations and installed mist spray systems at 131 stations across the network. A DMRC official explained, “The water consumption for mist spray is around one litre per minute. The systems are operated in accordance with Commission for Air Quality Management guidelines in three shifts daily — from 6.30 am to 9.30 am, 5.30 pm to 8.30 pm, and 1.30 am to 4.30 am.” Metro stations with the system include Mayur Vihar-1, Laxmi Nagar, Nirman Vihar, Preet Vihar, Anand Vihar, RK Ashram, and Kashmere Gate.
Other Agency Contributions
The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has installed 77 mist sprayers along 29.5 km of road stretches, covering 1,323 electric poles, with work ongoing on 24 additional roads. The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has identified 270 poles along an 11.8-km stretch, of which 204 mist sprayers have already been installed. The remaining 66 units are planned for Sector 8 in Dwarka, covering about 3 km. The Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC) has installed 198 mist sprayers on electric poles, with testing and commissioning currently underway.
