Delhi is set to introduce an artificial intelligence-based Decision Support System aimed at predicting air pollution levels. This development is expected to facilitate the identification of pollution hotspots and aid authorities in taking pre-emptive actions to mitigate deterioration in air quality. The initiative is being realised in partnership with IIT Kanpur and is part of a broader strategy for air quality management that the Delhi government plans to establish over a span of five years.

Functionality and Features of the System

The AI-enabled system is designed to utilise a combination of pollution data and weather information, enabling forecasts of air quality from 48 to 72 hours in advance. It aims to trace local emission sources, generate advisories, and provide scientific insights that can assist various departments in making timely decisions regarding air pollution management. Officials also indicated that the system would serve as an important tool for assessing pollution trends within the city.

This initiative comes as part of a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Department of Environment and the AIRAWAT Research Foundation, a non-profit organisation established under the Government of India’s AI Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cities. The agreement holds a validity of five years, with options for extension dependent on mutual consent.

In addition to the Decision Support System, the collaboration will see an enhancement of Delhi’s air quality monitoring network. Plans are underway to install additional low-cost sensors across diverse locations, use mobile monitoring laboratories, and incorporate satellite data to create a more comprehensive view of pollution levels across various neighbourhoods.

Enhanced Monitoring and Identification of Pollution Sources

The expanded monitoring system is expected to aid authorities in identifying pollution hotspots, mapping airsheds, and understanding the dynamics of air pollution within Delhi and its neighbouring states. This initiative will facilitate the differentiation between pollution generated locally in Delhi and that which originates from outside the city, allowing for more focused responses from relevant departments.

Officials anticipate that these developments will augment planning and pollution control efforts, providing better data and analytical resources to regulatory bodies. The project aims to bolster enforcement mechanisms, improve inter-departmental coordination, and help authorities prepare more effectively for episodes of elevated pollution in the capital.

Furthermore, the initiative also seeks to enhance transparency in air quality management, improve accountability, and fortify the framework for addressing public complaints related to air pollution. This aspect of the project aims to develop standard procedures and coordination mechanisms aligned with existing strategies and frameworks, such as the Commission for Air Quality Management and the Graded Response Action Plan.

Training and Implementation Mechanisms

A significant component of the collaboration involves training for government officials who will be utilising the new systems. Officers from various departments will receive instruction on interpreting data generated by the AI platform and integrating it into their planning for pollution control measures. Manuals and technical guidance documents are also planned to assist departments in effectively utilising the new systems.

Under the agreement, the Department of Environment will oversee coordination among governmental bodies and stakeholders, as well as provide operational data in compliance with legal guidelines. Additionally, a nodal officer will be appointed to manage the project’s implementation and review processes.

The AIRAWAT Research Foundation will focus on developing the AI-based tools and analytical frameworks, deploying technical researchers, and ensuring adherence to data protection laws. Regular meetings are planned to assess progress and align the project with the objectives of all parties involved. The Memorandum of Understanding currently does not require immediate financial investment from the Delhi government, with future funding needs to be proposed separately.

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