Delhi Govt deploys drones to track pollution sources at critical spots

In a first for Delhi, drones were used to identify pollution sources in critical hotspots across the city to combat air pollution. Environment Minister Gopal Rai launched this pilot initiative at the Wazirpur hotspot on Friday.

Addressing a gathering, Rai explained that the pilot project was a part of a larger action plan to monitor pollution levels in 13 identified hotspots where pollution regularly exceeds normal levels. “Drone mapping was conducted on Friday at the Wazirpur hotspot by a listed agency from the Survey of India. The goal is to maximise the use of modern technology to combat pollution effectively,” he said.

The demonstration involved drones flying at a height of 120 metres, covering a 200-metre radius, transmitting data directly to the Environment Department and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC). “Engineers from both agencies will analyse this data and submit a report, which will inform further actions for pollution control. If the pilot project proves successful, drone mapping will be extended to other hotspots across the city,” he added.

The initiative is a part of the Winter Action Plan, launched by the Delhi Government on September 25. “A primary initiative under this plan is the use of drone technology to monitor pollution in hotspots. Thirteen hotspots in Delhi have been identified where pollution levels are consistently high,” said Rai.

“These drones can identify pollution sources in real time, enabling targeted action to reduce pollution levels. Drone mapping technology is an essential tool for identifying air pollution sources in the city. With advanced sensors, drones can reach crowded urban areas, industrial zones, and locations that are difficult to monitor using traditional methods,” he further explained.

He added that deploying drones helped in understanding how pollutants spread and helped pinpoint critical hotspots, such as unauthorised factories or construction sites breaking pollution norms. “The data gathered through drones will accurately identify pollution sources, enabling focused and effective action,” Rai said

Rai said that specific action plans had been crafted for each of the 13 hotspots and the government had formed 13 dedicated coordination teams to monitor and manage them. “To reduce dust pollution, 80 mobile anti-smog guns have been deployed in hotspot areas. Additionally, MCD’s Deputy Commissioner has been instructed to conduct regular site visits with relevant officials to monitor these hotspots closely,” he said.