New Delhi: Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced on Friday that the city's Winter Action Plan, aimed at reducing pollution in the upcoming months, will be released on September 27. Key measures include the odd-even vehicle scheme, artificial rain, and drone technology to monitor pollution at 13 hotspots across the city.

According to a statement, the government, for the first time, will use drone technology this year to monitor pollution at 13 identified hotspots across Delhi.

"The Winter Action Plan, set to be unveiled on September 27, targets pollution hotspots, vehicle and dust pollution, industrial emissions, and introduces innovative emergency measures such as the odd-even vehicle scheme and artificial rain to combat severe pollution spells," it said.

The plan, based on 21 key focus points, was prepared following a meeting between the Environment Department and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) that was chaired by Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai at the Secretariat on Friday.

"To effectively combat winter pollution, the government has intensified its preparations and identified 21 priority areas that will guide our actions in the coming months," Rai said and emphasised the importance of coordination between various agencies.

Each department has submitted reports outlining key focus areas for pollution control, including efforts to curb dust pollution, reduce vehicle emissions, manage stubble and garbage burning, strengthen the Green War Room, and improve the Green Delhi App for public participation.

The plan also involves creating a special task force to oversee pollution control and conducting a real-time source apportionment study to identify major pollution sources more accurately.

Additional measures include expanding the city's green cover through tree plantation drives and establishing India's first e-waste eco-park as part of a broader strategy.

Key components of the plan also include a crackdown on firecrackers and open garbage burning, stricter regulations for industrial pollution, and collaboration with neighboring states and the Central government.

Multiple departments have been designated as nodal agencies for specific tasks. The Public Works Department and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi will handle dust pollution control and operate mobile anti-smog guns. The Traffic Police and the Transport Department will focus on reducing vehicle pollution, while the Forest Department will work on increasing the city's green cover.

The government is also exploring additional measures, such as promoting work-from-home options for private organizations and adjusting office timings, to further reduce pollution during peak months, according to the statement.

(With PTI inputs)