Delhi Unveils New Plan to Tackle Air Pollution
The Delhi government has launched a comprehensive strategy aimed at improving the city’s air quality. With the national capital experiencing some of its best air quality days in recent years, the government’s proactive approach is already showing early signs of success.On March 7, 2025, Delhi recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 85, marking the lowest reading for the period from January to March in the last three years. This improvement was sustained into the following days, with AQI levels remaining below 90, a welcome change for residents who have long suffered from severe air pollution.
The new pollution control plan, spearheaded by government officials, focuses on several key areas. One of the most significant measures is the drive to make the entire Ring Road dust-free. To achieve this, the government has introduced mechanised road sweeping and sprinklers to reduce dust accumulation, a major contributor to air pollution in the city.In addition to dust control, the government has emphasised the importance of green spaces. The Delhi government has instructed agencies such as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Delhi Development Authority (DDA), and Public Works Department (PWD) to plant trees along roads and central dividers. This initiative will not only reduce pollution but also enhance the overall green cover in the city, creating a healthier environment for its citizens.
Another key aspect of the plan is improving the public transport system. The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) is undertaking a route rationalisation process to optimise bus routes and make them more efficient. This move aims to reduce the reliance on private vehicles, which contribute significantly to the city’s pollution levels. In line with this, a real-time monitoring system for public buses is being set up to further enhance the convenience and efficiency of the network.Recognising that traffic congestion plays a major role in exacerbating air pollution, the government has also identified 250 major congestion points in the city.
Working with traffic police, officials are determining the causes of these traffic jams and will implement measures to alleviate congestion. These steps are expected to ease the flow of traffic and reduce the emission of harmful pollutants from vehicles.
The Delhi government’s latest initiative signals a serious commitment to tackling the city’s air quality crisis. By combining dust control, improved public transport, and traffic management, the government aims to significantly reduce pollution levels, providing Delhi’s residents with cleaner air and a healthier living environment. These efforts are part of a long-term plan to make Delhi not only more sustainable but also more resilient in the face of its growing pollution challenges.
