In 7-point action plan to combat winter pollution, AAP Govt to distribute free masks
The odd-even scheme will be rolled out in the national Capital from November 4 to November 15, said Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday. He also announced a slew of measures to mitigate pollution during winter months due to stubble burning in neighbouring States.
Kejriwal laid emphasis on seven-point action plan to combat winter air pollution. The Government has set special plans for 12 pollution hot spots in the city. Among them mass distribution of masks, mechanised sweeping of roads, tree plantation are high on the Government agenda.
Citing Energy Policy Institute of University of Chicago (EPIC’s) air pollution report, prepared during the pilot project of odd-even in January 2016, Kejriwal said the policy implementation resulted in a drop in Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 by 14-16 per cent as compared to that in neighbouring cities — Faridabad, Gurugram and Rohatak. The car rationing scheme was implemented in Delhi then and a fine of `2,000 was imposed on violators.
Elaborating on the logic behind the scheme this year when only a few days ago the Central Pollution Control Board data showed a 25 per cent dip in the pollution level in Delhi, Kejriwal said, “Before preparing the Winter Action Plan (WAC) to combat air pollution, we invited suggestions from the public.
“We have received 1,200 suggestions. Many residents and experts have strongly supported implementation of the scheme in peak pollution period. Their recommendation was that odd-even policy is a very effective measure, particularly in winter months. We have started making preparations to implement the odd-even scheme in Delhi.”
Kejriwal said the details of the 12-day scheme will be shared with Delhiites in coming days. Vehicles are expected to ply alternately on odd and even dates as per their registration numbers during the implementation of the scheme.
Addressing a Press conference, the CM said, “Ten or 11 months of the year, Delhi’s air has seen a marked improvement. But every November, because of the smoke that comes from Punjab and Haryana, Delhi turns into a gas chamber. The Centre and these States are trying to prevent this from happening. But until
that happens, we must take steps to protect ourselves from the toxic air created due to stubble burning.”
To address pollution menace, the Delhi Government said it will organise a community Diwali laser show on the eve of the festival. “The Supreme Court has prohibited the bursting of crackers in Delhi. In the winter season, the temperature inversion leads to stagnation of the polluted air and causes breathing troubles for humans and animals.
“Using crackers to celebrate Diwali will exacerbate the problem. All of us will come together and celebrate on the eve of Diwali with a mega laser show. Entry to the event will be free. Venue and other details will be announced in the coming days,” said the CM.
Efforts will also be made to control dust pollution of on roads, a major factor to PM 10 contribution. For this purpose, the city Government is to work with local civic bodies.
“In order to control dust on roads, the frequency and area of water sprinkling will be increased. Sweeping the roads will be completely mechanised and will collaborate with MCDs in this respect,” said the Delhi CM.
With the collaboration of Residents Welfare Associations (RWAs), the Delhi Government will ensure no garbage or leaf burning takes place, Kejriwal said. For this, the city Government has prepared a plan to depute civil marshals in each ward.
The Kejriwal Government is also launching Delhi tree challenge as part of the anti-pollution measures. “Whoever wants to plant a sapling in or around their homes, the Government will deliver the sapling at people’s homes. It would then be the people’s responsibility to take care of the plant,” he said.
The Government is also setting up a war room to look into complaints and grievances. Awareness campaigns will be launched in schools to educate students about pollution.
