Delhi Government Unveils Rs 8,300 Crore Plan With World Bank To Curb Air Pollution
The Delhi government has drawn up a seven-year air pollution mitigation plan titled 'Swachh Hawa, Swasth Delhi' with an estimated budget of Rs 8,300 crore to curb emissions across the capital. Announced by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday, the project is scheduled for implementation between September this year and August 2033. The World Bank will provide 65% of the funding, while the Delhi government will cover the remaining 35%.
To initiate the project, a special planning workshop will be held on July 10. The workshop aims to define the roles of various departments and agencies and lay down a roadmap for the timely implementation of the project.
Under the plan, the government will establish a dedicated Project Management Unit to ensure mission-mode implementation. The initiative also involves developing advanced air quality monitoring, data analytics, and Integrated Command and Control Centre-based monitoring systems. Additionally, the government plans to strengthen inter-departmental coordination and collaborate with Indo-Gangetic Plain states for airshed-based pollution management.
To address vehicular emissions, the project focuses on accelerating the phase-out of polluting vehicles, expanding electric vehicle adoption, improving public transport integration, and establishing advanced Pollution Under Control systems. Dust control measures will include road redevelopment, end-to-end paving, mechanised cleaning, and dust suppression technologies.
The plan also targets construction and demolition waste by promoting the use of Recycled Aggregate Manufacturing Systems. Furthermore, the government aims to improve municipal solid waste collection, processing, and disposal to prevent open waste burning and landfill fires, support cleaner industrial operations, and enhance green cover.
According to Chief Minister Gupta, the project is also discussing the piloting of innovative interventions such as low-emission zones, integrated urban planning solutions, and green public spaces to ensure future generations inherit a cleaner Delhi.
