To check open fires, CM hands over electric heaters to guards

In a major step to combat air pollution in the capital, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta today distributed electric heaters to night watchmen of various Resident Welfare Associations. The initiative aims to curb smoke and pollution caused by lighting open fires during the winter season.

Speaking on the occasions, the Chief Minister said, “The government is working in mission mode on all fronts to combat pollution.” She added that electric heaters are a “safe, clean and environmentally friendly alternative that can serve as an effective tool in the battle against pollution.”

The distribution, held at Dilli Haat, Pitampura, was organised using CSR funds of DSIIDC. CM Gupta thanked Environment and Industries Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa and DSIIDC for their support, noting that open fires during winter contribute significantly to air pollution. She highlighted that the heaters will play an effective role in reducing smoke.

The Chief Minister further outlined the government’s multipronged approach to tackle pollution, including mechanical sweeping, water sprinkling, mist spray technology, strict control over industrial emissions and wall to wall carpeting of approximately 1,400 kilometres of roads to reduce dust dispersion.

She emphasised that open burning of waste or firewood is strictly prohibited and that gas connections are being provided to families to discourage the use of firewood as fuel.

The CM stressed the importance of community involvement, stating, “Public participation is crucial in the fight against pollution.” She appealed to RWAs, residents and local communities to take action against burning wood, coal or waste, highlighting that pollution control is a shared responsibility.

Environment and Industries Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said, “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Delhi is waging a strong battle against pollution.”

He noted that despite a 10 per cent rise in vehicles and over 20 per cent increase in construction activity this year, the city has recorded significant improvement in its Air Quality Index. He added that nearly 40 per cent of legacy waste mounds have been cleared and reclaimed land has been used for plantation drives, underlining the government’s comprehensive pollution control strategy.

Sirsa also called for public cooperation, stressing that behavioural change is essential, and urged citizens, contractors and community groups to adopt environment friendly practices to make Delhi cleaner and greener.