Delhi Govt identifies 62 new pollution hotspots, prioritises dust mitigation: Sirsa

According to Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Sirsa, who conducted on-ground inspections, the government has scientifically identified 62 additional pollution hotspots, in addition to the previously known 13.

Delhi Govt identifies 62 new pollution hotspots, prioritises dust mitigation: Sirsa

File Photo: IANS

The Delhi government has intensified field inspections amid rising pollution levels, aiming to further strengthen measures to curb dust and other pollutants that typically spike during the winter season as part of the city’s comprehensive Winter Action Plan.

According to Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Sirsa, who conducted on-ground inspections, the government has scientifically identified 62 additional pollution hotspots, in addition to the previously known 13.

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Speaking to reporters during the review, Sirsa said that unless dust mitigation is prioritised, it will be very difficult to properly address the pollution crisis, adding that significant work remains in this direction.

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“Road and construction dust contributes substantially to PM10 and PM2.5 levels in the air, and unless we remove it effectively, smog control cannot be achieved,” he said.

The minister reiterated that sanitation machinery is being strengthened across MCD zones to ensure continuous sweeping, water sprinkling, and timely waste disposal.

Sirsa noted that the identification of new hotspots has revealed where pollution is rising due to traffic and where dust is the primary contributor.

He added that the Delhi government is coordinating with adjoining state governments to address pollution sources along border areas, including industrial emissions.

On Saturday, he visited key stretches in the Vasant Kunj and Mahipalpur areas to assess the status of sanitation, dust control, and road cleanliness.

He mentioned that Delhi’s current approach to tackling pollution is firmly data-driven, and the newly identified hotspots have been determined based on dust load, congestion patterns, and waste accumulation.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, clear directions have been issued to intensify road cleaning, dust control, and waste removal from all vulnerable points, Sirsa said.

During interactions with field officers, he reviewed the frequency of waste collection, the condition of sanitation machinery, and the adequacy of manpower, vehicles, and sprinklers deployed in these areas.

He directed urgent action to address any shortfalls and ensure sustained cleanliness.

The minister also instructed officials to maintain constant vigilance through citizen feedback channels and the Green Delhi app.

Emphasising the importance of public participation, Sirsa said every small step counts and urged people to avoid burning waste or biomass in the open.

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