Delhi to launch 15-point action plan against air pollution

New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will be launching a 15-point action plan to fight air pollution on September 30. The move is being made in anticipation of winter when the fog and cold make air pollution worse in the city.

The winter action plan will focus on stubble management, dust pollution, vehicular emission, open burning of garbage, industrial pollution, pollution hotspots, smog towers, public participation, firecrackers, and joint action with neighbouring states among other aspects.

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai said that the AAP government will make it mandatory to install anti-smog guns at all construction and demolition sites larger than 5,000 square metres. Action will be taken against those who violate the rule. Prior to this, only sites larger than 20,000 were required to install anti-smog guns to control dust pollution.

He added that the revised Graded Response Action Plan will come into force as soon as the Commission for Air Quality Management issues orders. It is a set of anti-air pollution measures followed in Delhi and its vicinity according to the severity of the situation.

The minister also issued directions to the Delhi Pollution Control Committee to crack down on unauthorised industries and ensure registration of all construction/demolition sites. "Teams have also been asked to conduct continuous inspections in the industrial areas and to take strict action against illegal or unauthorised industries."

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