Delhi’s Pollution Crisis: Can Drone Mist Spraying Make a Difference?
Introduction
Delhi government initiated a trial of drone-based mist spraying at Anand Vihar, a designated pollution hotspot in New Delhi. This new approach is part of a broader effort to curb the city’s rising pollution levels, especially in areas inaccessible to traditional anti-smog guns. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai highlighted that pollution levels at specific hotspots, including Anand Vihar, are much higher than the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) level.
The Technology and Implementation
The drones used in this pilot can carry up to 15 litres of water, which they release as a fine mist. This helps to settle airborne pollutants, particularly in congested areas that conventional anti-smog guns cannot reach. The effectiveness of this technology will be evaluated through a report submitted to the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and the environment department.
Part of the Broader Winter Action Plan
This drone pilot project is one of the measures outlined in the city’s Winter Action Plan, launched on September 25. The plan includes 21 targeted actions to combat pollution during winter months when pollution levels in the capital are typically high. According to Minister Rai, each of Delhi’s 13 pollution hotspots has a dedicated team to implement and monitor these local measures.
Other Anti-Pollution Measures
Alongside drones, the Delhi government has deployed a combination of mobile and static anti-smog guns to mitigate dust pollution:
- 80 mobile and 68 static anti-smog guns have been installed in key areas.
- 200 mobile anti-smog guns are operational across Delhi’s 70 assembly constituencies.
- 146 anti-smog guns are installed on high-rise buildings to combat air pollution at higher altitudes.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is also intensifying inspections in areas prone to dust pollution, and officials from 13 departments are monitoring construction sites to ensure compliance with anti-pollution guidelines.
Future Implications and Broader Deployment
Minister Rai stated that if the trial is successful, drone-based mist spraying could be expanded across Delhi as a viable solution for pollution control in dense and industrial areas where traditional methods are ineffective. He emphasized that drones offer a unique advantage in targeting pollution sources in urban areas that are otherwise difficult to reach.
Delhi’s Current Air Quality Status
As of this week, Delhi’s air quality continues to worsen, with over 15 monitoring stations reporting AQI levels in the “severe” category. The AQI classifications range as follows:
- 0-50: Good
- 51-100: Satisfactory
- 101-200: Moderate
- 201-300: Poor
- 301-400: Very Poor
- 401-500: Severe
The Delhi government’s pilot project represents a significant step toward using innovative solutions, such as drones, to address urban pollution challenges.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
