Delhi Metro rolls out anti-pollution steps

Amid worsening air quality in the national capital, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has launched a series of intensified anti-pollution drives across its construction sites and adjoining areas.

The initiative aims to curb dust and ensure strict compliance with environmental norms at a time when Delhi continues to grapple with hazardous pollution levels.

According to DMRC, teams are carrying out targeted activities such as reducing dust inside construction zones, clearing accumulated road dust and removing garbage from footpaths and central verges. A major drive conducted on Friday between Azadpur and Ashok Vihar saw engineers undertaking cleanliness operations, repairing damaged footpaths and nearby roads and restoring and beautifying road medians.

During the inspection, DMRC officials ensured that all construction materials were adequately covered and that wheel-wash systems for vehicles exiting the sites were functioning properly, a key requirement to prevent dust from spreading onto city roads.

DMRC said similar drives are underway at multiple locations across the city as pollution levels remain a pressing concern. These efforts come in addition to routine measures implemented by the corporation to minimise environmental impact during metro construction.

Currently, 19 km of city roads are under the temporary jurisdiction of DMRC for ongoing metro work. These stretches have already been repaired by the corporation to ensure they do not contribute to dust pollution.

To further strengthen its mitigation efforts, DMRC has installed more than 100 anti-smog guns across construction sites, metro stations, and office buildings. The Environment Department is conducting daily inspections to monitor compliance with environmental guidelines.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has directed all agencies to strictly adhere to pollution-control norms. DMRC has reiterated its commitment to ensuring full compliance and contributing to the city’s fight against pollution.