Delhi Pollution: On Thursday (August 29), a major meeting was held at the Delhi Secretariat regarding the Delhi government's Winter Action Plan to tackle pollution. The discussion included the topic of artificial rain.
Delhi's Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, convened a meeting with all officials and environmental experts to discuss the Winter Action Plan. The meeting focused on reviewing expert suggestions to reduce pollution issues.
After the meeting, Environment Minister Gopal Rai provided information about the suggestions discussed, stating that an attempt was made last year for artificial rain.
He mentioned that today’s suggestions included starting work on this initiative in advance. This means that all necessary formalities should be completed in a timely manner so that artificial rain can be carried out if needed.
He added, "Today, I will write to the Union Environment Minister to discuss permissions and other matters, with IIT experts and officials also involved."
Rai also highlighted that in 2016, there were 110 days when the AQI was in the good category. Last year, this number increased to 206 days of improved AQI.
This is a significant achievement, especially considering the increase in Delhi's population, construction, vehicles, and production. He noted that this success was made possible with the cooperation of Delhi residents, neighbouring states, and the central government.
Gopal Rai stated that every year, pollution levels in Delhi start to rise after October and continue until January. To address this, the government prepares a Winter Action Plan annually.
Work on this year’s plan has already begun, and experts were called on Thursday to discuss it. Key departmental representatives also participated, and all suggestions will be incorporated into the Winter Action Plan. Last year’s plan was based on 14 points.
He further mentioned that the departments have been asked to draft action plans based on today’s suggestions, and a joint meeting with all departments will be held on September 5.
The Environment Department will coordinate these action plans and present them to the public.
While discussing some suggestions, Minister Gopal Rai mentioned that experts have suggested altering office hours. The reasoning is that everyone commutes to and from work at the same time, which leads to increased traffic congestion and more vehicles on the road for longer periods, contributing to higher pollution levels.
Additionally, Rai noted that during winter, guards often light fires to stay warm. A suggestion has been made to provide them with heaters through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
