NEW DELHI: In an effort to mitigate air and dust pollution in the national capital, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is implementing a series of measures including proactive management of dust pollution from roads and open areas, establishment of dedicated construction and demolition (C&D) waste collection sites, and the implementation of greenery and plantation programs.
“There is a special emphasis on optimizing the use of mechanized road sweeping machines, implementing effective manual road sweeping, and utilizing water sprinklers to suppress dust particles,” the civic body said in a statement on Thursday.
With a special focus on mitigating dust pollution, the MCD has announced plans to install interlocking pave blocks at seven parking sites in Shahdara South Zone and one in Najafgarh Zone. Moreover, the agency is undertaking maintenance activities such as repairing unpaved roads, broken roads, and potholes to further address dust pollution concerns.
To bolster its efforts, the MCD has deployed 52 Mechanical Road Sweepers (MRS) for sweeping PWD roads and 225 water sprinklers, including 28 mobile anti-smog guns (ASGs), to suppress dust particles on various roads. In addition, 20 anti-smog guns have been installed at MCD facilities and another 15 at identified high-rise buildings.
The civic body is actively engaged in curbing the rising tide of construction and demolition waste through strategic initiatives. This includes identifying key waste collection points, curbing illegal dumping, and educating citizens on responsible waste disposal. A total of 68 strategic C&D waste collection points have been identified, with 42 operationalized collection sites already set up across the zones.
The Horticulture Department of MCD has also joined the fray by undertaking extensive greening efforts across open areas, gardens, municipal buildings, and roads. Through mass tree and shrub plantation initiatives, including ground covers and climbers, the aim is to maximize greenery and control road dust.
Notably, from April 2023 to February 2024, the MCD has planted 1,22,884 trees and 3,10,710 shrubs within its jurisdiction, contributing significantly to reducing air pollution levels. Regular meetings are held to monitor and implement measures and advisories issued by relevant authorities, including CAQM/DPCC, to effectively control dust pollution.
Initiatives by civic body
To bolster its efforts, the MCD has deployed 52 Mechanical Road Sweepers (MRS) for sweeping PWD roads and 225 water sprinklers, including 28 mobile anti-smog guns (ASGs), to suppress dust particles on various roads. In addition, 20 anti-smog guns have been installed at MCD facilities and another 15 at identified high-rise buildings. Notably, from April 2023 to February 2024, the MCD has planted 1,22,884 trees and 3,10,710 shrubs within its jurisdiction. Regular meetings are held to monitor and implement measures and advisories.