Delhi govt will install 305 mist sprayers at nine pollution hotspots: CM Gupta

The Delhi government is preparing an extensive plan to deploy mist spray technology to combat air pollution in the capital, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on Thursday. Gupta inspected mist sprayers installed at ITO, saying work is underway to install 305 mist sprayers at nine pollution hotspots in the city. Mist technology is being seen as an effective solution against pollution, Gupta asserted, adding that trials of mist sprayers in some New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) areas has shown positive results. "We are preparing an extensive plan to cover all the roads in Delhi with mist spray machines. Mist sprayers fitted on 35 poles at ITO are showing good results," the chief minister told reporters after the inspection. Mist technology involves use of water sprays to primarily curb dust pollution. Gupta said a high level committee comprising experts from various fields is being formed to advise the Delhi government on pollution remedies.

The panel, announced on Wednesday, will include senior officials from various government departments besides experts from IITs and specialists in environmental sciences, officials said, adding that the committee will be granted special powers by the government. Gupta said different departments including PWD, DSIIDC, and the DDA, among others, have been instructed to work on filling potholes, carpet roads, and plant foliage on road dividers and islands, besides undertaking other steps to curb pollution. The chief minister urged people to report potholes on the Delhi government portal. Resident welfare associations (RWAs) should also distribute electric heaters to security guards in residential areas to prevent biomass burning in winters which contributes to air pollution, she added