New Delhi, December 24, 2025:
Amid rising winter chill and persistent air pollution concerns in the national capital, the Delhi Government has intensified its efforts to protect vulnerable sections and curb pollution at the source. As part of these measures, Health and Transport Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh on Tuesday distributed 100 electric heaters to Residents’ Welfare Associations (RWAs) at his camp office in Vikaspuri, reinforcing the government’s commitment to both public welfare and environmental protection.
The heater distribution drive has been undertaken keeping in mind the dual challenges of harsh winter conditions and worsening air quality during the season. By providing electric heaters, the government aims to discourage the burning of coal and wood in open areas, a practice that significantly contributes to localised air pollution and poses health risks, especially during winter months.
Officials said the initiative is part of a broader winter action plan of the Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government, under which a total of 10,000 electric heaters are being distributed to RWAs across the city. These heaters are primarily intended for use by security guards and other frontline workers who remain outdoors for extended hours and are most vulnerable to extreme cold. The programme promotes the use of clean, safe and sustainable alternatives to biomass burning, aligning welfare measures with pollution control objectives.
The citywide heater distribution programme was formally launched earlier by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who handed over electric heaters to RWAs, marking a significant step in the government’s people-centric winter preparedness and pollution mitigation strategy. Under the initiative, RWAs are being encouraged to ensure that security personnel and other needy individuals do not resort to burning firewood, coal or other polluting materials for warmth.
Officials said that by ensuring access to electric heating, the government aims to provide immediate relief from extreme cold while simultaneously improving neighbourhood air quality. Reduced open burning is expected to lower local pollution hotspots, particularly in residential areas, and contribute to overall public health benefits during the winter season.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh said the government’s winter strategy is focused on safeguarding the health and dignity of frontline workers while addressing pollution at its source. He said that providing electric heaters is a humane, practical and effective solution that balances welfare concerns with environmental responsibility. According to the minister, pollution control cannot rely solely on enforcement actions and penalties, but must also include people-friendly interventions that offer viable alternatives.
“By providing electric heaters, we are ensuring that those who work tirelessly to keep our neighbourhoods safe are protected from extreme cold, while also reducing pollution caused by open burning. Public participation, clean technology and strong on-ground implementation are the pillars of Delhi’s approach to environmental protection,” Dr. Singh said.
In addition to the heater distribution, the Health and Transport Minister also held a ‘Jan Samvad’ programme at the Vikaspuri camp office. Residents from various parts of the assembly constituency participated in the public interaction and raised issues related to civic amenities, healthcare services, transport facilities and local infrastructure. The minister listened to the concerns and suggestions of citizens and issued on-the-spot directions to concerned officials for swift resolution of the issues raised.
Officials present during the Jan Samvad were instructed to ensure timely follow-up and accountability in addressing public grievances. Dr. Singh emphasised that direct engagement with citizens is a crucial component of responsive and transparent governance. He said such interactions help the administration understand ground-level challenges and ensure that solutions reach people without unnecessary delays.
“Our approach to governance is rooted in public participation and transparency. Whether it is healthcare, transport, winter relief or pollution control, solutions must be practical, accessible and sensitive to people’s needs. Strong coordination among departments and active citizen involvement are essential for effective governance,” the minister said.
The Delhi Government has been implementing a range of winter-specific measures to combat pollution, including intensified monitoring, restrictions on open burning, deployment of enforcement teams and promotion of cleaner alternatives. The distribution of electric heaters is being seen as a significant welfare-linked environmental initiative that addresses both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term pollution control goals.
Officials said the initiative is expected to benefit thousands of security guards and other workers across Delhi and contribute to improved air quality in residential areas. The government has reiterated that similar integrated welfare and environmental measures will continue in the coming weeks as part of its broader strategy to ensure a healthier, cleaner and more resilient Delhi during the winter season.
