Delhi CM Atishi inspects pollution hotspot Anand Vihar

Chief Minister Atishi, accompanied by Environment Minister Gopal Rai, conducted an on-ground inspection at Anand Vihar on Sunday, identifying the area as a significant pollution hotspot. The Anand Vihar bus terminal, a major interstate hub, faces severe pollution challenges due to the influx of diesel buses from neighbouring states and ongoing construction for the RRTS by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation.

“Anand Vihar has become a pollution hotspot, but the Delhi Government is taking strict measures to reduce pollution here,” Atishi said. She highlighted the deployment of anti-smog guns around the bus terminal, road repairs and the removal of encroachments at traffic congestion points to improve air quality.

Atishi noted that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi is deteriorating, emphasising the government’s commitment to combatting pollution citywide. “We are conducting a dust control drive with 99 teams inspecting construction sites across Delhi. Additionally, we have started the process of deploying 325 anti-smog guns across the city,” she said, assuring that all relevant agencies are working diligently to address the issue.

Pointing out the geographical significance of Anand Vihar, she explained, “This area serves as a border between Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, with numerous buses coming from outside Delhi. It is one of the worst-affected areas in terms of AQI.”

Atishi elaborated on the measures being taken, including continuous operation of anti-smog guns and the maintenance of moist roads to prevent dust pollution.

Rai said, “This morning, we reviewed the air quality monitoring situation. The AQI fluctuates significantly during late night and early morning, primarily due to bus operations at Anand Vihar and Kaushambi. While Delhi’s buses run on CNG and electricity, many diesel buses from UP are impacting the AQI.”

Rai urged the UP Government to adopt similar pollution control measures as those implemented in Delhi.