NDMC Reports Zero Air Pollution Hotspots in Delhi, Credits Multi-Pronged Strategy
In a significant environmental achievement, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has officially declared that its jurisdiction contains no identified air pollution hotspots. This remarkable status, detailed in an Action Taken Report dated January 22, is attributed to a comprehensive and sustained approach combining technological upgrades, rigorous enforcement, and extensive greening efforts.
Sustained Upgrades and Strict Enforcement Yield Results
The report, prepared by NDMC's air pollution nodal office, highlights that the council area—encompassing major arterial roads, diplomatic enclaves, and bustling commercial hubs—has reaped benefits from continuous dust control measures, improved traffic flow management, and close monitoring of pollution-generating activities. Officials emphasize that these measures form a multi-layered, round-the-clock clean-air strategy that will continue to be expanded and intensified.
Mechanized Sweeping and Advanced Anti-Pollution Technology
Currently, NDMC operates four mechanical sweepers in two shifts, covering an impressive 220–230 kilometers daily against a total mechanized sweeping length of 415 kilometers. All collected silt is systematically transported to the Okhla waste plant for scientific processing. To further enhance capacity, tenders have been awarded for five CNG-operated sweepers valued at Rs 3.7 crore, with expectations for them to become operational by February. Additionally, proposals for four battery-operated lane sweepers and four ride-on sweepers designated for footpaths and parking areas are at an advanced stage of development.
Anti-smog guns represent another critical component of NDMC's arsenal against air pollution. The council operates nine units—one static and eight mobile—with mobile guns covering up to 340 kilometers daily. Static systems have been installed at 10 private high-rise buildings and three NDMC structures. A total of 31 guns have been deployed at major construction sites, with seven more currently under installation.
Innovative Dust Control and Waste Management Initiatives
In a proactive bid to control localized dust pollution, mist spray systems have been installed on 77 electric poles along prominent routes such as Lodhi Road, Shanti Path, and Africa Avenue. This network is slated for expansion to 1,323 poles across 29.5 kilometers in two phases, with similar plans underway for high-traffic areas including Connaught Place, Khan Market, and Hanuman Mandir.
The council demonstrates robust waste management by collecting 35–40 tonnes of construction and demolition waste daily, all of which is transported to the Shastri Park recycling facility. To ensure compliance with dust control norms, multiple inspection teams have been formed for consistent monitoring and enforcement.
Aggressive Greening and Electric Vehicle Integration
Greening remains a long-term focal point for NDMC, with the area boasting over 47% green cover. In the 2025–26 period alone, the council planted 3–3.5 million shrubs and plants, including 73,000 under the National Clean Air Programme, and successfully converted 98 barren patches into vibrant green zones.
Complementing these efforts, NDMC operates 60 electric vehicles as part of its sustainable mobility push. Furthermore, 124 of the proposed 450 EV charging stations have already been installed, signaling a strong commitment to reducing vehicular emissions and promoting cleaner transportation alternatives.
