Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav, along with Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, recently held two significant meetings aimed at finalising an extensive action plan to combat air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region during the forthcoming winter season. The meetings took place on September 3, 2026, with the first led by Yadav, which concentrated on the Action Plan associated with Information, Education and Communication (IEC) initiatives.

Participating in this meeting through virtual mode, Sirsa joined Environment Ministers and senior officials from Delhi and adjoining states, including Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. The discussions centred around major pollution sources and highlighted the regional nature of air quality challenges, underscoring the necessity for coordinated actions across state lines, particularly as winter approaches.

Delhi Government’s Multi-Pronged Approach

In a follow-up meeting, Sirsa disclosed that the Delhi Government is adopting a robust and multi-faceted strategy to address air pollution. He emphasised that stringent measures have been implemented against industries contributing to pollution and that ongoing enhancements are being made to enforcement and monitoring efforts. A key aspect of this initiative includes identifying pollution hotspots and conducting specific interventions in those areas.

Sirsa articulated that air pollution is a collective issue which necessitates unified action from various states and agencies. He further explained that the government is committed to updating and enforcing regulations to ensure compliance throughout the National Capital Region.

Additionally, to improve air quality management, the Delhi Government is instituting a multi-tiered execution strategy that entails continuous monitoring, specific actions tailored to hotspots, and thorough ward-level oversight.

Deployment of Monitoring Teams

As part of the action plan, a total of 78 dedicated Sub-Divisional Teams will be positioned across Delhi’s 39 sub-divisions. Each sub-division will be overseen by two teams, which will comprise AEE/JEE-level officers from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC). These teams are set to conduct inspections during both daytime and nighttime to enforce regulations against biomass burning, dust pollution stemming from construction activities, industrial emissions, and illegal waste disposal.

Moreover, the teams are responsible for ensuring that construction activities adhere to the requirements outlined in the Dust Portal and for monitoring compliance with directives related to diesel generator sets. Inspections will include checking on decentralised construction and demolition waste storage centres operated by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), identifying unpaved and pothole-ridden roads, and addressing complaints received through the Green Delhi App and the 311 App.

In a bid to strengthen local enforcement, 256 Ward-Wise Monitoring Teams will function across Delhi, including 250 teams for areas managed by the MCD, four for the New Delhi Municipal Council, and two for the Delhi Cantonment Board. Operating around the clock, these teams will tackle local pollution triggers and ensure compliance with regulations.

Intensified Enforcement in Hotspot Areas

The Delhi Government is also launching an intensified enforcement campaign in 48 identified pollution hotspots, particularly in non-conforming areas. Teams under the supervision of respective District Magistrates will prioritise actions against unauthorised air polluting industries and non-compliance with environmental norms.

These enforcement efforts will specifically target industries involved in metal casting, waste management processes, and unauthorised fuel usage. Additionally, water-polluting activities in non-industrial areas, like jeans dyeing and electroplating, will also be monitored closely.

Sirsa stated that this winter’s approach is geared towards proactive and intensive measures at the grassroots level. He mentioned a focus on continuous monitoring and expedient action against any violations, particularly in high-pollution areas. The Ministers reiterated their commitment to ensuring clean air for Delhi’s residents and urged all relevant departments to maintain vigilance during the winter months.

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