New Delhi, July 13 (APAC Media): Delhi is taking a long term shot at its biggest environmental challenge, air pollution.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has launched the ‘Clean Air, Healthy Delhi’ programme with support from the World Bank.
The ₹8,300 crore initiative aims to build a technology driven and coordinated system to improve air quality in the national capital.
The seven year programme was launched during an orientation workshop organised by the World Bank and the Delhi Environment Department at the Delhi Secretariat.
The ₹8,300-crore Clean Air, Healthy Delhi project has been approved. Supported through World Bank financing, the initiative will deploy modern technology, scientific planning and coordinated institutional action to address every major source of pollution across the capital.…
— CMO Delhi (@CMODelhi) July 3, 2026
Clean Air Programme in Delhi to Run Till 2033
The Delhi Clean Air Program will be implemented from September 2026 to August 2033 across all districts of the capital.
Under the funding model, the World Bank will provide 65% of the project funding. The Delhi government will contribute the remaining 35%.
Unlike short term pollution control measures, the programme will focus on building long-term systems to tackle Delhi’s air quality crisis.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said pollution is a complex challenge that requires scientific planning and coordination between multiple government departments.
Technology to Track Delhi’s Pollution
A major focus of the programme will be on stronger air quality monitoring and data-based decisions.
The government plans to establish a dedicated Project Management Unit (PMU), modern monitoring networks and an Integrated Command and Control Centre.
Data analytics will be used to track pollution levels and help authorities take faster and more targeted action.
The programme will also push for better coordination with neighbouring states to tackle regional pollution sources.
Old Vehicles, Dust and Waste Under Focus in Delhi
The second major pillar of the programme will target key sources of pollution.
Plans include the gradual phase out of old polluting vehicles and greater promotion of electric mobility.
Delhi will also expand public transport and strengthen dust control measures at roads and construction sites.
Modern solid waste management systems will be introduced to reduce waste related pollution.
32,000 EV Charging Points Planned
Electric mobility will play a key role in Delhi’s clean air strategy.
The government is working on a new Electric Vehicle Policy and plans to expand its electric bus fleet.
Around 32,000 EV charging points are also planned across the capital.
The clean air mission will be supported by other green initiatives, including plantation drives targeting 70 lakh trees and Yamuna rejuvenation projects.
Delhi Calls for Joint Fight Against Pollution
Addressing the workshop, CM Rekha Gupta said improving air quality cannot be the responsibility of a single department.
She called for stronger coordination between government agencies and other stakeholders.
The goal, she said, is not limited to improving Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI). The government also wants to make the entire pollution management system more accountable and effective.
21% of Green Budget for Environmental Initiatives
Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said environmental protection remains a key government priority.
Around 21% of Delhi’s Green Budget for 2026-27 has been allocated to clean air initiatives, Green Delhi programmes and Yamuna rejuvenation efforts.
World Bank experts also discussed international environmental standards, financial management and implementation mechanisms during the workshop.
Officials from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), Transport Department and Delhi Transco Limited (DTL) participated in the discussions.
The focus is now on technology, cleaner transport and stronger accountability to build a healthier and more sustainable capital.
Also Read:
Uttar Pradesh Mandates Jobs Within 90 Days of Skill Training
