The Delhi government, in coordination with central agencies, has significantly intensified its multi-faceted campaign to tackle the capital's severe air pollution crisis. This enhanced action plan involves stricter enforcement of existing rules, the deployment of advanced technology for monitoring, and a renewed push for public cooperation.
Enhanced Surveillance and Stricter Enforcement
A cornerstone of the ramped-up strategy is the strengthening of surveillance mechanisms. Authorities are now utilizing advanced real-time source apportionment studies to pinpoint the exact origins of pollutants. This scientific approach allows for targeted action against specific pollution sources rather than blanket measures.
Simultaneously, enforcement teams on the ground have become more active. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed implementing agencies to ensure rigorous adherence to the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This means increased vigilance and penalties for violations such as open burning of waste, dust emission from construction sites, and the use of non-compliant industrial fuels.
Focus on Key Pollution Sources
The action plan zeroes in on major contributors to Delhi's foul air. Dust from construction and demolition sites remains a prime target. Agencies are mandating strict compliance with dust control norms, including the use of smog guns, green cover on raw materials, and proper enclosure of sites.
Another critical focus is the management of municipal solid waste. To prevent the toxic practice of open burning, especially in the outskirts, municipalities are accelerating waste processing and ensuring timely clearance of landfill sites. Public awareness campaigns are also being conducted to discourage waste burning.
The transport sector is under scrutiny as well. Efforts to phase out old, polluting vehicles continue, alongside checks on overloaded trucks and those not following mandated routes. The promotion of public transport and electric vehicles is being emphasized as a long-term solution.
Public Participation and Long-Term Vision
Officials stress that government action alone is insufficient. A major component of the new push is encouraging public participation. Citizens are urged to use public transport, report pollution violations through official channels, and celebrate festivals in an environmentally conscious manner. The 'Red Light On, Gaadi Off' campaign is being reiterated to reduce vehicular emissions at traffic intersections.
The long-term vision involves a sustained effort beyond the winter months. The plan includes increasing green cover, developing integrated public transport networks, and fostering regional cooperation with neighboring states to address the trans-boundary nature of air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR).
The concerted effort by the Delhi government and the CAQM represents a more aggressive and data-driven phase in the battle for clean air. While the challenge is immense, the enhanced multi-pronged measures aim to create a tangible and sustained improvement in Delhi's air quality, safeguarding public health.
