Delhi’s commitment to a cleaner and healthier urban future took a significant leap forward today with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s unveiling of the ambitious Air Pollution Mitigation Plan 2025.
This comprehensive strategy, designed to address the pressing environmental challenge, integrates green mobility, stringent regulatory oversight, and a renewed focus on civic participation. The initiative underscores the administration’s belief that breathable air is a fundamental right, directly impacting public health and the quality of life for millions of Delhiites.
At the heart of the plan is a multifaceted approach to decarbonise urban transport. A key feature includes the deployment of 2,300 electric auto-rickshaws at metro stations, a strategic move aimed at boosting last-mile connectivity while simultaneously reducing tailpipe emissions. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the broader vision of fostering a robust electric vehicle ecosystem within the capital, thereby contributing to the creation of a zero-net carbon city. Furthermore, the plan mandates the installation of mist sprayers at 13 identified pollution hotspots, a tangible measure to combat particulate matter in areas most affected by industrial and vehicular emissions.
The ‘Shuddh Hawa Sabka Adhikar – Pradushan Par Zordar Prahar’ (Clean Air is Everyone’s Right – A Strong Attack on Pollution) campaign also champions a substantial afforestation drive. Under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, Delhi aims to plant a staggering 70 lakh saplings this year. This endeavour not only contributes to carbon sequestration but also honours the profound connection between environmental stewardship and the nurturing spirit of motherhood, echoing a national call for greater ecological responsibility. Such initiatives are pivotal in transforming Delhi into a greener, more sustainable metropolis for future generations.
Recognising the critical role of enforcement, the government is introducing enhanced scrutiny for Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) centres. Chief Minister Gupta announced that these centres would undergo rigorous audits every six months to root out corruption and ensure the integrity of vehicle emission checks. This proactive measure is crucial for maintaining accountability and preventing the proliferation of polluting vehicles on Delhi’s roads. Concurrently, the introduction of a Smart Intelligent Traffic System aims to alleviate traffic congestion, a significant contributor to urban air pollution, by optimising traffic flow and reducing idling times.
Looking ahead, the administration is set to implement stricter entry norms for vehicles into Delhi from November 1, allowing only BS-VI compliant, CNG, and electric vehicles. This decisive step demonstrates a strong commitment to transitioning towards cleaner fuel sources and accelerating the adoption of environmentally friendly transportation. Additionally, all construction sites exceeding 500 square meters will now be required to register on the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) portal, enabling better monitoring and regulation of dust emissions, a pervasive issue in rapidly developing urban landscapes.
The comprehensive nature of the Air Pollution Mitigation Plan 2025 signifies a paradigm shift in Delhi’s approach to environmental governance. By integrating technological solutions, community engagement, and robust regulatory frameworks, the city is paving the way for an equitable and eco-friendly future. The focus on electric mobility, green cover, and transparent enforcement mechanisms reflects a holistic understanding of urban sustainability, setting a precedent for other global megacities grappling with similar environmental challenges. This concerted effort underscores Delhi’s unwavering dedication to ensuring that every citizen breathes clean, healthy air, fostering a truly livable and resilient urban environment.
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