The Delhi government has taken a significant step to reduce pollution. It has now been made mandatory to install anti-smog guns on all government and private buildings of G+5 and above by November 29, 2025.
New Delhi: The Delhi government has issued a new order to combat air pollution. Under this, it has now been made mandatory to install anti-smog guns on all government and private buildings in the capital that are G+5 (i.e., 6 floors or higher). This rule must be implemented by November 29, 2025.
This rule will apply to all commercial buildings, malls, hotels, educational institutions, and office complexes with an area of over 3,000 square meters. However, residential buildings and societies have been exempted from this mandate.
Why This Step Was Taken
Delhi's Environment Minister, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, stated that during winters, dangerous pollutant particles like PM 2.5 and PM 10 significantly increase in Delhi's air. This poses a serious threat to people's health. Therefore, the government has taken this step to improve the air quality of the capital and provide relief to citizens from pollution. Sirsa added that it is the government's priority to provide a clean and safe environment for the people of Delhi. Anti-smog guns will prove to be an important step in this direction.
DPCC Notice
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has issued a public notice regarding this order. It states that clear rules have been made on how many smog guns will need to be installed based on the building's area.
Rules Based on Area
- Buildings with an area of less than 10,000 square meters will be required to install at least 3 smog guns.
- Buildings with an area between 10,001 and 15,000 square meters will need to install 4 smog guns.
- Buildings with an area between 15,001 and 20,000 square meters will require 5 smog guns.
- It will be mandatory to install 6 smog guns in complexes ranging from 20,001 to 25,000 square meters.
- After this, one additional smog gun will need to be installed for every 5,000 square meters of additional area.
All commercial buildings, educational institutions, and tall structures must comply with this rule.
When and How Smog Guns Will Operate
The DPCC has clarified that it will be mandatory to operate the smog guns throughout the year. They can only be turned off during the monsoon season, from June 15 to October 1. It is also necessary to follow the guidelines issued by the authorities for the operation and maintenance of these guns.
Why Smog Guns Are Necessary
Several studies have proven that smog guns reduce the concentration of pollutants in the air. When a fine water mist is sprayed from smog guns, dust and pollutant particles in the air settle down.
During winters, when the air is cold and stagnant, pollution particles tend to linger in the atmosphere for a longer period. Smog guns prove to be an effective method for reducing these.
Action Will Be Taken if Not Complied With
The DPCC has urged all institutions and building owners to ensure compliance with this order by November 29, 2025. If any institution fails to comply, punitive action will be taken against it.
Government's Commitment
The Delhi government states that combating air pollution is not solely the administration's responsibility but a shared responsibility of all. Installing smog guns on malls, hotels, institutions, and large buildings will improve the city's air quality, allowing people to breathe clean air.
Sirsa said, "The government is taking every necessary step to provide a healthy environment to the people of Delhi. This order is an important initiative in that direction."
What are the Challenges
Although experts believe that smog guns are helpful in reducing pollution, they are not a permanent solution. The problem of pollution in Delhi is also caused by vehicle emissions, industrial discharge, stubble burning, and dust, among other reasons.
Therefore, it is essential to emphasize other measures alongside smog guns. These include promoting public transport, incentivizing electric vehicles, strict regulation of industrial emissions, and prohibiting stubble burning.
