New Delhi: In a bid to combat the severe air pollution choking Delhi after Diwali, the Delhi government announced it will deploy three mist spray drones to reduce dust pollution and gather vital pollution data. The drones will operate at 13 identified pollution hotspots across the capital, spraying water to settle airborne dust particles and curb levels of particulate matter (PM), which is a primary contributor to Delhi’s air quality woes.
New Strategy to Combat Dust Pollution: Mist Spray Drones
Delhi’s Environment Department officials explained that the drones are expected to help manage PM levels by settling dust particles that contribute to PM 2.5 and PM 10 pollution, known for their harmful effects on respiratory health. The drones will undergo a 15-day trial run, spraying mist over areas with particularly high pollution levels to assess the effectiveness of this intervention.
The plan involves renting these drones from a vendor, and if the trial shows promising results, the initiative could be extended with additional drones and longer operational timelines.
Delhi’s Alarming PM 2.5 Levels Raise Health Concerns
A recent analysis found that Delhi had the highest PM 2.5 levels among Indian cities in October, with an average concentration of 111 micrograms per cubic meter – significantly higher than safe levels recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). PM 2.5 particles are especially dangerous as they can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, exacerbating respiratory issues and increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems.
The analysis also highlighted that several cities in the National Capital Region (NCR) were among India’s top 10 most polluted urban areas, underscoring the regional scale of the pollution crisis.
Delhi Government’s Broader Measures to Address Pollution
The mist spray drone initiative is just one aspect of Delhi’s multifaceted approach to tackle its air pollution crisis. The government has previously implemented measures such as restricting vehicle emissions, promoting the use of public transport, and regulating construction activities. However, these efforts often fall short during winter when cold weather and reduced wind speed trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to a sharp increase in pollution levels.
Public Health Concerns and Future Outlook
As pollution levels continue to surge, the government’s drone strategy offers a novel approach to managing air quality. If the trial proves successful, officials are hopeful that expanding the program could bring much-needed relief to Delhi’s residents. By capturing real-time data on air pollutants, these drones could also aid in refining future pollution-control measures.
For now, Delhi residents continue to face the daily risks associated with extreme pollution, as the government explores new methods to combat the city’s deteriorating air quality.
