New Delhi, 24 December 2025: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta today outlined a series of immediate and long-term measures being undertaken by the Delhi Government to effectively control pollution in the national capital, aiming for a permanent reduction in environmental hazards. She stated that surplus drivers from the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) have been deployed to curb vehicular pollution and are conducting Pollution Under Control (PUC) checks at petrol pumps across the city.
The Chief Minister announced that the government has decided to initiate the installation of mist spray systems on high-rise buildings, replacing the heavy and less efficient anti-smog guns. Additionally, the Delhi Government is expanding its network of air quality monitoring stations to strengthen pollution surveillance and ensure data-driven interventions.
CM Gupta emphasized that she, along with her cabinet ministers and various government departments, is actively engaged in controlling pollution in the capital. She noted that alongside extensive field operations, special review meetings are being held to examine pollution control measures closely and enhance their effectiveness. She added that PUC inspections are being intensified, polluting industrial units are being shut down, public transportation is being streamlined, and dust control efforts are ongoing. The administration has also effectively curtailed incidents of burning coal, wood, and bonfires across the city.
Hundreds of DTC Drivers Deployed for Traffic and Pollution Management
According to CM Gupta, vehicular emissions are a major contributor to Delhi’s air pollution. Research from the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and other government and research-based institutions highlights that controlling vehicular emissions can have a significant impact on reducing pollution levels. She stated that strict action is being taken against polluting vehicles while also implementing measures to ease traffic congestion.
As part of these efforts, 600 surplus DTC drivers have been temporarily deployed to assist the Delhi Traffic Police in managing road traffic and alleviating congestion. In addition, 3,000 drivers are conducting PUC checks round-the-clock across 500 petrol pumps in three shifts, ensuring that polluting vehicles are prevented from refuelling. Due to the vigilance of these staff members, licences of 27 PUC centres found negligent during inspections have been suspended.
Mist Spray Systems to Replace Anti-Smog Guns on High-Rise Buildings
CM Gupta noted that anti-smog guns installed on high-rise buildings are heavy, cumbersome, and not very effective in controlling pollution. These guns operate in a single direction and consume large amounts of water. Currently, 148 anti-smog guns function across major commercial complexes, malls, hotels, and office buildings (G+5 and above) in Delhi.
The government has decided to allow the installation of mist spray systems on high-rise buildings instead of anti-smog guns. These systems are lighter, spray water in multiple directions, can be installed in multiple units on a building, consume less water, and are environmentally friendly, benefiting surrounding trees and vegetation. Several areas in the capital are already witnessing the effective functioning of these systems.
Expansion of Air Quality Monitoring Network
As part of long-term measures, the Delhi Government is increasing the number of Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) to enable data-driven pollution control initiatives. At present, 40 stations are operational across Delhi, including 24 under the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), 7 under IITM, 6 under CPCB, and one under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Following the directives of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), six additional monitoring stations will soon be established at key locations, including IGNOU, JNU, ISRO Earth Centre, Commonwealth Sports Centre, and NSUT (West Campus). This expansion will further strengthen Delhi’s air quality monitoring framework and enhance the city’s capability to implement timely and effective pollution control measures.
Through these comprehensive steps, the Delhi Government aims to improve enforcement of environmental regulations, reduce vehicular and industrial emissions, and provide citizens with cleaner and healthier air. CM Gupta reiterated that a combination of field action, modern technology, and continuous monitoring forms the backbone of the government’s strategy for long-term improvement in Delhi’s air quality.
