How to stop Delhi from turning into a ‘gas chamber’ in winter? MCD discusses steps

During a recent MCD House Committee meeting, officials and councillors discussed measures to combat Delhi's severe winter air pollution. One key concern is the surge in dust pollution, a major contributor to the city's worsening air quality during colder months.

Environment Management Committee Chairperson Sandeep Kumar reported that the Delhi government has approved and funded 70 new mechanical road-sweeping machines, including 45 smaller units for narrow lanes and 32 larger ones for major roads. The committee also approved deploying 1,000 sanitation workers per ward over a four-day cycle, as well as assigning one specialized mechanical housekeeping machine per Assembly Constituency.

Councilors proposed various strategies to tackle dust pollution. Rohini F ward councillor Ritu Goel sought a four-month ban on uncovered construction material piles, which could become permanent following its success in a pilot project. Sri Niwas Puri Councilor Rajpal Singh demanded a ban on wood usage in cremation grounds during peak winter months, proposing eco-friendly cow-dung cakes instead. This measure was supported by other members to address sewer clogging caused by stray cattle waste.

Adarsh Nagar Councillor Mukesh Kumar Goel called for heavy penalties against open waste burning, as sanitation staff and residents often resort to burning garbage in open areas. Pankaj Luthra, Jhilmil Councillor, highlighted that the National Green Tribunal has issued Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000 pollution fines since 1997, but these remain largely uncollected. He demanded 50 to 100 dedicated MCD personnel to recover over Rs 100 crore in missing municipal revenue and deter violations.

Several councillors expressed frustration over poor sanitation services, particularly from private contractor Delhi Municipal Solid Waste Solutions Limited. Councillor Rajesh Kumar Gupta claimed that only 1 or 2 of the assigned 5 trucks and four rickshaws operate in his Assembly constituency, resulting in severe waste accumulation. He urged the MCD Commissioner to personally inspect vehicle deployments and ensure full operational capacity for door-to-door waste collection.