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Delhi's 2026 Air Quality Plan: 15% PM2.5 Cut Targeted
9 Feb
Summary
- Aims to cut PM2.5 by 15% and PM10 by 20% by end of 2026.
- Focuses on transport, construction, and waste for cleaner air.
- Requires significant expansion of public transport infrastructure.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has outlined a comprehensive action plan for Delhi, setting ambitious air quality targets for 2026. The plan aims for a 15% reduction in annual average PM2.5 and a 20% reduction in PM10 levels compared to the previous five years. The targeted annual average AQI for 2026 is 177, with specific goals for PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations.
Coordinated strategies will address multi-source pollution from transport, construction, waste management, industry, and road dust. Key transport initiatives include expanding public transit with more electric buses and Metro lines, and enhancing last-mile connectivity. Significant improvements are also planned for municipal solid waste management, with goals to reduce garbage load at major dumpsites like Okhla, Bhalswa, and Ghazipur.
The plan also highlights the need for stricter enforcement at construction sites and wider deployment of mechanical road sweeping machines. To monitor progress, the CAQM intends to increase the number of air quality monitoring stations. Achieving these targets will necessitate substantial investment and expansion in infrastructure across various sectors.
