In a hands-on demonstration of her administration's commitment to tackling air pollution, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday personally participated in a washing and cleaning operation on the capital's Ring Road at Khyber Pass Chowk. This marked the first time this entire stretch was thoroughly washed as part of a targeted anti-pollution initiative.
Leading by Example in the Fight Against Dust
Chief Minister Gupta took part in sweeping and water-sprinkling activities, describing the drive as a crucial measure against the persistent problem of dust pollution in Delhi. She emphasized that regular mechanical sweeping, comprehensive road washing, and stringent on-ground monitoring are being intensified across the city to combat dust, which is one of the major contributors to the capital's poor air quality.
Gupta pointed a finger at previous governments, alleging that their failure to construct proper wall-to-wall roads allowed loose dust to spread unabated throughout the year. "We are ensuring permanent solutions through the construction of strong, dust-resistant roads," the Chief Minister asserted during the event.
Financial Push and Long-Term Strategies
In a significant announcement aimed at decentralizing and accelerating the solution, Gupta revealed that each Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) is being allocated Rs 10 crore to undertake similar road construction and improvement projects in their respective constituencies. This move is designed to ensure widespread implementation of dust-control infrastructure.
Beyond road-related measures, the Chief Minister highlighted other long-term strategies to curb pollution sources. These include phasing out the use of coal and wood in open settings. To facilitate this transition, the government has begun distributing electric heaters to security guards and electric irons to laundry workers, aiming to reduce their reliance on traditional, polluting fuels.
Government in "Mission Mode" for Cleaner Air
PWD Minister Parvesh Verma, who was also present, stated that the Delhi government is operating in "mission mode" to address the issue. He confirmed that departmental teams were active throughout the day to ensure cleaner roads and reduced dust levels.
The minister detailed that the use of mist spray systems, water sprinklers, and other anti-dust measures has been ramped up significantly. Concurrently, activities like garbage removal, footpath cleaning, and pothole repairs have been prioritized to eliminate potential dust reservoirs. "We are taking swift and effective steps to keep Delhi cleaner and to improve air quality," Verma affirmed.
The Saturday morning drive on Ring Road symbolizes the state government's proactive, on-ground approach to an environmental challenge that affects millions of Delhi's residents, signaling a push for tangible actions over mere announcements.
