Delhi, the nation's capital, is finally taking decisive action to address its longstanding and severe air pollution problem. This issue was central during the recent Assembly elections, and now, 100 days after assuming power, the BJP government led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has launched the 'Air Pollution Mitigation Plan 2025'.
New Delhi: Chief Minister Rekha Gupta formally launched the ‘Air Pollution Mitigation Plan 2025’ on Tuesday to tackle Delhi's chronic air pollution crisis. The plan outlines several stringent measures to purify the city's air.
Delhi has been ranked among India's most polluted cities for several years. This new government initiative is considered a crucial step. The plan encompasses a wide range of measures, from promoting electric vehicles and increasing green cover to strengthening monitoring of construction activities.
Electric Vehicles to Transform Delhi's Commute
During a press conference, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that 2300 electric autos will be deployed at metro stations to curb vehicular smoke emissions. This initiative will promote the use of green energy in public transport and reduce reliance on petrol and diesel vehicles. She stated, "Our government aims to see more CNG and electric vehicles on Delhi's roads. This will not only reduce pollution but also enable Delhi residents to lead healthier lives."
Mist Sprayers to be Deployed at 13 Hotspots
Areas with extremely poor air quality have been identified as 'pollution hotspots'. Thirteen such sensitive areas will be equipped with mist sprayers to suppress airborne dust particles and improve air purity. Furthermore, all Pollution Under Control (PUC) centers will undergo audits every six months to ensure transparency and stricter enforcement of pollution control procedures.
Highlighting the importance of tree plantation, the Chief Minister announced the government's target of planting 70 lakh (7 million) saplings this year. An emotional and environmental campaign titled 'A Tree in Mother's Name' has also been launched. CM Gupta stated, "Each tree not only provides oxygen but is also a means of saving every breath of our earth. This campaign will give every citizen an opportunity to honor their mothers and fulfill their environmental responsibilities."
Stricter Measures with a ‘Smart Traffic System’
Recognizing the significant contribution of traffic congestion and slow-moving vehicles to pollution, the government announced the implementation of a 'Smart Intelligent Traffic System' in Delhi. This will enable digital monitoring and management of traffic, improving traffic flow and reducing fuel wastage.
The Rekha Gupta government is tightening the reins on polluting vehicles. From November 1st, 2025, only BS-VI, CNG, and electric vehicles will be permitted entry into Delhi. Older, heavily polluting vehicles will be banned. Additionally, all construction projects exceeding 500 square meters must register on the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) portal. This measure aims to control dust and pollution from construction sites.
It is noteworthy that this plan is launched on the 100th day of the Rekha Gupta government. This initiative symbolizes both the government's policy and intent to seriously combat the capital's pollution problem.
