Delhi continues to struggle with worsening air pollution as recent cloud seeding efforts failed to trigger artificial rainfall. With air quality dipping further, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 1 has been enforced across the national capital.
To curb pollution from ongoing construction under Phase IV of the Delhi Metro, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has strengthened its environmental safeguards. Managing Director Dr. Vikas Kumar inspected the implementation of these measures at the Ashok Vihar and Derawal Nagar metro sites. The inspection aimed to ensure full compliance with GRAP guidelines and assess on-site air quality management systems.
According to DMRC officials, multiple anti-pollution steps have already been taken. Regular water sprinkling is conducted at active construction zones to suppress dust, and vehicle wheels are washed before entering city roads to prevent mud and debris spread. All building materials at sites are kept covered, while waste from construction and demolition is being properly disposed of or recycled.
A major focus has been the deployment of 82 anti-smog guns across various metro project sites. These devices spray fine mists of water into the air, helping capture and reduce particulate matter. DMRC was the first construction agency in India to adopt these guns even before government mandates were issued. Officials confirmed that more units will be added if required to maintain air quality.
Dr. Kumar also reviewed the wheel-washing systems and directed teams to ensure dumper trucks are cleaned thoroughly so that construction materials do not spill onto the roads. The DMRC’s Environment Department has now intensified inspections across all sites to verify that pollution control protocols are being strictly followed.
With Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) climbing to severe levels, authorities emphasize that every sector must adopt proactive pollution control methods. DMRC’s initiative, integrating advanced technology with sustainable site practices, sets a significant precedent for other infrastructure projects in the capital.