NEW DELHI — The Delhi government has mandated the installation of anti-smog guns in all high-rise buildings, hotels, commercial complexes, major establishments such as airports, and construction sites in a bid to reduce air pollution, Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced Saturday, as published by The Economic Times.
Chairing a high-level meeting with officials from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), Sirsa emphasized the need for stricter pollution control measures. He directed all relevant departments to devise a comprehensive roadmap to tackle pollution and sought data on pollution contributions from key sites, including Delhi Airport.
“Delhi must address its own pollution crisis before demanding action from others,” Sirsa said.
Pollution was a major issue in the recent elections, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticizing the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government for its failure to control worsening air quality.
The MCD has been instructed to compile a list of existing and under-construction high-rises, which will be subject to the new pollution control norms. Sirsa said separate guidelines would be established for existing buildings and upcoming projects to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Sirsa also announced plans to transition all vehicles operating within the airport to green alternatives. Additionally, he urged major establishments to contribute to pollution control efforts by increasing greenery around their premises.
“By 2026, Delhi will introduce at least 10,000 electric vehicles,” Sirsa said. “We will also take significant steps to reduce landfill waste, converting cleaned landfill sites into parks and forests.”
The government is considering cloud seeding as a measure to combat pollution during peak smog months, and all necessary approvals will be prioritized, Sirsa added. He also called for collaboration with institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi and other universities to strengthen pollution control efforts.
Sirsa stressed that if necessary, new laws would be introduced to enforce stricter pollution control.
Environmental activist Bhavreen Kandhari urged the government to focus on addressing major pollution sources, including industries, construction activities, and fossil fuel plants located within the city. She noted that while anti-smog guns and water sprinkling provide temporary relief, they do not offer long-term solutions.
“Anti-smog guns are ineffective at construction sites, while water sprinkling can help reduce dust,” Kandhari said. “The government should implement policies that deliver lasting and impactful results.”
Sirsa reiterated the urgent need for internal reforms to mitigate pollution levels.
“Fifty percent of Delhi’s pollution originates from within the city,” he said. “We need to fix our own problems first before holding others accountable.”