Delhi government launches control centre to monitor pollution sources in real-time, AI analysis

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated an Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) on Thursday to monitor pollution sources in real-time. The centre, situated at Delhi Metro Rail Corporation's IT Park in Shastri Park, will utilize AI-based analysis of pollution data and track the operations of road sweeping machines. The ICCC aims to provide real-time information that can be linked to immediate field action.

During winter, 78 sub-division-level teams will be deployed to monitor and enforce pollution control measures. Once a pollution hotspot is identified, the relevant department will be alerted for action. The movement of field teams will be monitored through GPS-enabled vehicles. The focus is on converting technology-driven information into swift field action and measurable outcomes.

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa informed that over 700 construction sites of more than 500 square meters each are under monitoring using AI and CCTV cameras. If a rise in the PM10 level is noticed, the concerned department and the site owner will be alerted. The ICCC will monitor all AQI stations in the city, analyze data from previous years, and track local causes of pollution.

Pollution-control teams, known as Vayudoot, will wear body cameras while addressing issues like road dust, open burning, and construction-related violations. The integration of automatic number plate recognition cameras with the command centre will enhance the monitoring of the government's 'No PUC, No Fuel' movement. An intelligent traffic management system will regulate traffic signals based on real-time traffic conditions, reducing congestion and pollution.

Gupta launched a 'Jan Suggestion' portal, allowing citizens to share their suggestions, complaints, pollution-related concerns, and information about good work done to reduce pollution. The portal will enable complaints to be acted upon, useful suggestions to be incorporated, and good efforts towards pollution control to be recorded and encouraged.

In the ongoing campaign, 72 lakh trees have been planted, surpassing the target of 70 lakh. Sirsa announced that only green crackers would be allowed in Delhi for Diwali celebrations, urging residents to consider pollution concerns while celebrating.