Delhi Launches Anti-Open Burning Campaign
Introduction
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi has started an anti-open burning campaign as part of its Winter Action Plan, running until December 6. This initiative aims to tackle rising pollution levels, especially after Diwali.
Key Announcements
Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced the campaign during a review meeting at the Delhi Secretariat. He stated that 588 patrolling teams from various departments will monitor and prevent open burning incidents across the city.
Additional Measures
The campaign includes regulating construction sites and providing heaters for night workers to reduce open fire usage. Rai emphasized the high AQI levels in Delhi and neighboring states, which have been between 300 and 400.
Weather Concerns
Meteorological experts predict adverse weather conditions in the next ten days, with lower temperatures and reduced wind speeds potentially worsening pollution.
Departmental Coordination
All departments are on high alert, with officials from 33 departments strategizing on implementing the Winter Action Plan and GRAP rules effectively. Personnel on leave for festivals have been instructed to resume anti-pollution efforts.
Construction Site Inspections
The Delhi government has inspected 7,927 construction sites for dust pollution, imposing fines totaling Rs 63 lakh for violations. 428 sites were identified as major violators.
Anti-Smog Measures
146 anti-smog guns have been installed on high-rise buildings, with 200 mobile anti-smog guns deployed across various areas.
Doubts Revealed
Anti-Open Burning Campaign -: This is a campaign to stop people from burning things like garbage or leaves in the open air, which can cause pollution and make the air dirty.
Environment Minister -: The Environment Minister is a person in the government who is responsible for taking care of the environment and making sure it is clean and safe for everyone.
Gopal Rai -: Gopal Rai is a leader in the Aam Aadmi Party and is the Environment Minister of Delhi, working to improve the city’s air quality.
Aam Aadmi Party -: The Aam Aadmi Party is a political party in India that focuses on issues like corruption and improving public services.
Winter Action Plan -: This is a plan made by the government to tackle problems that happen during winter, like pollution, to make sure people stay healthy.
AQI -: AQI stands for Air Quality Index, which is a number used to show how clean or polluted the air is. A high AQI means the air is very polluted.
Patrolling teams -: These are groups of people who go around the city to check if anyone is burning things in the open and to make sure rules are being followed.
Anti-smog guns -: These are machines that spray water into the air to help reduce pollution and make the air cleaner.