Delhi Boosts Air Quality Watch: 13 New Stations Coming

Delhi is set to significantly bolster its air quality monitoring capabilities with plans to install a minimum of 13 new air quality monitoring stations by the end of this year. Ten of these new stations will operate under the purview of the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC).

The tender document, issued on May 14, outlines that the successful bidder will undertake the supply, installation, and a comprehensive 10-year operation and maintenance contract for these stations, commencing from their commissioning.

The scope of work includes the daily reporting of ambient air quality data to both the DPCC and the Central Pollution Control Board. Data will also be transferred and integrated online with government platforms, ensuring real-time access to pollution levels.

These state-of-the-art stations will be equipped with analysers for gaseous pollutants, particulate matter monitors, meteorological instruments, and calibration systems. Compliance with US EPA standards and National Ambient Air Quality Standards is mandatory, with analysers requiring current EPA reference or equivalent certification.

The contractor will also be responsible for 24-hour staffing, security, and all recurring expenses, including electricity and internet connectivity, throughout the contract period. Standard operating procedures for calibration, maintenance, and data validation must be submitted prior to contract award.

Evaluations of bids will consider total supply and installation costs, training expenses, and the 10-year operation and maintenance expenditure. The specific locations for these stations will be provided to the selected bidder after the contract is awarded. This expansion follows the inauguration of six new CAAQMS in February of this year, underscoring the government's commitment to achieving a monitoring station for every 25-sq km area.