Will Odd-Even Return in Delhi? Check Delhi Govt's Winter Action Plan

The AAP government in Delhi is in action once more to combat pollution. Gopal Rai, the environment minister for Delhi, unveiled the city's Winter Action Plan. 

There are 21 measures in this plan that are meant to cut down on pollution. It covers emergency protocols including permitting offices to work from home (WFH) and even going so far as to create artificial rain.

Delhi’s Winter Action Plan Theme

"This year, our theme is 'Mil Kar Chale, Pradushan Se Lade,'" Minister Gopal Rai declared. He added that the AAP government has already begun working on the 21 measures of the winter action plan from September 25. Additionally, he mentioned that drones will be used to monitor locations with high pollution levels.

Delhi’s Plan for Pollution

Delhi Government has come up with an action plan to tackle the deteriorating pollution level in the capital.

• Drone Monitoring: As part of the action plan, the government will use drones to identify the main causes of pollution in problem areas and will set up anti-smog guns in those locations. Additionally, there will be an anti-dust campaign to help reduce pollution.
• WFH Model: In case of an emergency due to pollution, the government will encourage working from home and suggest cutting down on the use of private vehicles.
• Artificial Rain: The Delhi government is also planning to create artificial rain between November 1 and 15 to improve the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) before pollution levels rise during Diwali and stubble burning.
• Special Task Force: Furthermore, a special six-member task force has been established to monitor pollution levels and take necessary actions.

ALSO READ: Asia Power Index 2024: This Non-Asian Country is the Most Influential in Asia; Check Complete Rankings

When will the odd-even scheme be implemented?

The Delhi government has not yet announced the exact date of the implementation of the odd-even scheme. However, Environment Minister Gopal Rai has said that the odd-even scheme will be implemented when the pollution level in Delhi is highest. 

This scheme is usually implemented when the air quality in Delhi becomes very bad, especially after Diwali when pollution is at its highest peak due to stubble burning and fog.

Still a “NO” to Crackers!

There will be no exceptions to the firecracker ban; it will remain in place this year too. The ban will take effect immediately once the new notification is issued.

As per the announcements given by Delhi Minister Gopal Rai, a total of 588 teams have been organized to regulate the open burning of waste, and the GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) phases will go into force.

ALSO READ: These Two Cities of UP have Surpassed Delhi in Pollution: Check their Names