Here's how Delhi is planning to combat winter air pollution
What's the story
The Delhi government is developing a "Winter Action Plan" to combat recurring air pollution in the national capital.
This year, the focus will be on encouraging behavioral changes through aggressive awareness campaigns against pollution, Environment Minister Gopal Rai said.
The new plan also includes promoting work-from-home practices and implementing voluntary vehicle restrictions instead of the Aam Aadmi Party's flagship Odd-Even scheme.
Innovative solutions
Experts suggest artificial rain to combat pollution
Notably, these suggestions were discussed at a meeting with experts who recommended using artificial rain during winter to address air pollution.
"The main suggestions in the expert meet include a change in people's behavior related to pollution. Awareness campaigns should be run for this," Rai said.
"Suggestion to have different timings of different offices...buy heaters from the CSR fund of companies...distribute them...to prevent burning of biomass in winter, encouraging the use of electric vehicles...are important," he said.
Expert consultation
Rai proposes taking help of IIT Kanpur
"On the suggestion of artificial rain...a letter will be written to the Union Environment Minister...to hold a meeting with...IIT Kanpur," Rai added.
He said the upcoming winter action plan will be developed based on recommendations from officers and representatives of various departments and institutions.
"The main objective of this meeting was to enhance the effectiveness of the winter action plan with the experts' suggestions. It was proposed that artificial rain should be used on severe days in Delhi," he said.
Targeted strategies
Separate action plans for pollution hotspots
The minister highlighted that his government has successfully reduced pollution through the Summer and Winter Action Plans, developed in collaboration with various departments.
He added that the number of good, satisfactory, and moderate days increased from 110 in 2016 to 206 in 2023.
"Separate action plans will be created for hotspots to reduce pollution and improve air quality. Experts have suggested that addressing these hotspots individually will further lower pollution in Delhi," the minister added.
Priority areas
14 focus points identified for pollution reduction
The government has identified 14 focus points for priority action in the coming days. These include dust, vehicular and industrial pollution, stubble burning, open garbage burning, firecrackers.
Efforts will also be made to increase green cover and tree plantation as well as promote public participation.
A review meeting with all concerned departments is scheduled for September 5 to prepare a joint action plan based on these focus points.