Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday introduced a comprehensive and strict strategy to address air pollution in the capital, marking a strong move from planning to implementation. Launching the Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan 2026, she stated that it builds upon the government’s “historic” Green Budget for 2026–27 and is designed to turn clean air objectives into measurable results, according to an official CMO statement.

Prepared under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the plan outlines a detailed roadmap for sustainable urban growth, focusing on accountability, technology, and time-bound execution. A high-level review meeting chaired by the Chief Minister at Mukhyamantri Janseva Sadan included ministers, senior officials, Delhi Metro representatives, and traffic authorities.

Rekha Gupta emphasized that environmental protection and clean air are now central to government policy, supported by dedicated funding for green mobility, dust management, waste handling, afforestation, and pollution monitoring. She described the initiative as an enforcement-driven campaign backed by technology, resources, and strict supervision, aiming to ensure cleaner air for all residents.

The plan targets major pollution sources such as vehicle emissions, road dust, construction, industrial output, and biomass burning using a scientific, data-based approach. It identifies 11 priority sectors with clearly defined roles, timelines, and real-time monitoring systems. Strict measures include enforcing the “No PUC, No Fuel” rule using digital tracking and ANPR cameras, and allowing only BS-VI compliant, CNG, or electric goods vehicles into Delhi from November 1. During severe pollution, steps like staggered office hours, work-from-home policies, and restrictions on polluting vehicles may be implemented.

Public transport will be expanded significantly, with the bus fleet expected to reach 13,760 by 2028–29, focusing on electric buses. Integration of metro, RRTS, and last-mile connectivity options will reduce reliance on private vehicles. Additionally, 32,000 EV charging stations will be installed, and the upcoming EV Policy 2026 will promote cleaner mobility, especially for two-wheelers and commercial vehicles. To ease congestion, 62 traffic hotspots will be addressed through planned interventions, supported by an Intelligent Traffic Management System, smart parking, and pricing reforms. Large-scale deployment of road cleaning equipment, water sprinklers, and anti-smog systems will tackle dust pollution, with real-time monitoring in place.

Around 3,500 km of roads will be upgraded with better surfaces, greenery, and improved infrastructure. Construction pollution will be monitored using AI-based systems like the C&D Portal 2.0, ensuring proper waste handling and recycling. The government has also set deadlines to clear landfill sites—Okhla by July 2026, Bhalswa by December 2026, and Ghazipur by December 2027—while promoting circular economy initiatives like an e-waste eco park. Biomass burning has been banned, with alternatives provided and strict penalties for violations.

Industries must install real-time emission monitoring systems, and non-compliant units will face closure. Environmental governance will be strengthened through expanded monitoring networks, a central Green War Room, and ward-level “Vayu Rakshak” teams. Citizen participation will be encouraged via improved reporting platforms. An ambitious plantation drive aims to plant 70 lakh trees and shrubs in 2026–27, with a long-term goal of over one crore. The plan also encourages innovation by involving researchers, startups, and experts. Rekha Gupta concluded that the Action Plan 2026 is a results-oriented framework with strong financial backing, strict deadlines, and accountability, reaffirming the government’s commitment to clean air as a fundamental right.