Delhi govt to unveil Winter Action Plan on September 27

Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced on Friday that the Winter Action Plan aimed at curbing pollution in the city, which includes measures like the odd-even vehicle scheme and artificial rain, will be released on September 27.

The government, for the first time, will use drones to monitor pollution at 13 identified hotspots across the city, according to a statement.

“The Winter Action Plan, to be unveiled on September 27, will focus on pollution hotspots, vehicle and dust pollution, industrial emissions, and introduce emergency measures such as the odd-even vehicle scheme and artificial rain to tackle severe pollution,” the statement said.

The plan, which focuses on 21 key areas, was developed following a meeting between the Environment Department and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) chaired by Gopal Rai at the Secretariat on Friday.

Rai highlighted that the government has intensified preparations by identifying 21 priority areas to guide pollution control efforts in the coming months, stressing the need for coordination among various agencies.

Departments have submitted reports addressing areas like dust pollution control, vehicle emissions reduction, stubble and garbage burning management, and improving public engagement through the Green War Room and the Green Delhi App.

The plan also includes forming a special task force to oversee pollution control initiatives and conducting a real-time source apportionment study to better understand pollution sources.

Additionally, efforts to increase Delhi’s green cover through tree plantation drives and the construction of India’s first e-waste eco-park are part of the broader strategy.

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Multiple departments have been assigned specific responsibilities, with the Public Works Department and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi managing dust pollution and anti-smog guns, the Traffic Police and Transport Department overseeing vehicle emissions, and the Forest Department focusing on increasing green cover.

The government is also considering work-from-home options for private organisations and adjusting office timings as additional steps to reduce pollution during peak months, the statement added.

(With inputs from PTI)