New Delhi: Delhi Additional Chief Secretary Prashant Goyal has directed government agencies to step up coordinated action, address identified pollution sources promptly and maintain regular monitoring at the Punjabi Bagh air-pollution hotspot ahead of winter.
Goyal, who is also the nodal secretary for the West district’s air-pollution and monitoring committee, inspected the hotspot and reviewed measures being taken by different agencies, according to an MCD statement.
MCD West Zone Deputy Commissioner Colonel Vinod Atri accompanied him, along with officials and representatives of the Delhi administration, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), Delhi Jal Board and Delhi Traffic Police.
Dust, traffic and waste among sources reviewed
During visits to locations identified within the hotspot, Goyal assessed efforts on the ground to tackle pollution. Officials briefed him on contributing sources, including vehicular movement, road dust and smoke, construction and demolition activities, accumulated waste and other local sources.
The inspection also covered the anti-smog guns, sprinklers and MRSM machines being used for pollution control. Their deployment and functioning formed part of the review of mitigation measures.
Agencies told to coordinate and monitor action
A detailed review meeting followed at the MCD West Zone office. Atri briefed Goyal on the hotspot’s pollution situation, identified sources and contributing factors, as well as corrective work undertaken so far.
Goyal reviewed action by the departments and stressed better coordination, continuous monitoring and a quick response at identified pollution locations. He asked all agencies concerned to ensure the necessary prevention and control measures.
The directions placed particular emphasis on sustained action on the ground, timely resolution of identified sources and effective monitoring of mitigation work. Officials were asked to ensure that local measures were implemented and reviewed regularly.
Focus on winter risk
Goyal asked officials to pay particular attention to the coming winter months, when air quality is at risk of deteriorating. The MCD said the inspection and meeting underlined the need for coordinated and sustained action to improve air quality in Punjabi Bagh and the wider West district.
