The Delhi government is preparing for a potential winter pollution crisis, and the proposed Winter Action Plan includes a diverse set of measures, some unorthodox.
The plan, set for further discussion on September 5th, includes the potential use of artificial rain, a work-from-home policy for both private and government employees, restrictions on vehicle use in areas with high pollution levels, and public awareness campaigns about winter pollution in Delhi.
The idea of artificial rain, or cloud seeding, was proposed by IIT-Kanpur last year, but due to time constraints, necessary permissions could not be granted. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai is seeking a meeting with central agencies and IIT Kanpur experts to revisit this proposal.
Rai highlighted the necessity of such measures, stating that Delhi’s air quality drastically worsens during November. Despite previous efforts by the Delhi government to mitigate pollution, levels spike during winter months, particularly in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
The plan also includes additional measures like staggered office hours to minimize traffic during peak pollution periods and the promotion of electric vehicles in high pollution zones.
However, the proposed artificial rain plan has faced criticism from opposition parties. The BJP labelled it “ineffective” and urged the Delhi government to address the issue of stubble burning with the AAP-led Punjab government. The Congress echoed this sentiment, calling for the intervention of Lieutenant-Governor V.K. Saxena to find a permanent solution to the city’s persistent air pollution problem.
Despite the criticism, the Delhi government remains committed to tackling the severe air quality issues that plague the capital during the winter. The effectiveness of the proposed measures, particularly the artificial rain plan, will be closely monitored as the winter months approach.
