Major cities are mostly all dealing with this environmental issue which is air pollution. Being that New Delhi is one of the main ones, they have decided to experiment with a unique solution: installing mist systems over streetlights.
A recent Times of India article reported that Delhis Public Works Department (PWD) plans to install sprinklers and misting systems on 1,000 light poles.
The way these systems work is by spraying tiny droplets into the air which then brings the dust back on to the ground. All the congestion and construction causes dust and debris in the air which is a big source of the significant pollution.
They hope to reduce the amount of dust the people intake through their day to day.
The PWD has installed 271 sprinkler units and 305 mist spraying systems throughout the capital. They also plan to develop green walls and vegetation covers at 47 roundabouts.
Furthermore, the sewage water from nearby waste treatment plants to water these new green spaces. By doing so they hope to alleviate the concerns many big cities face when trying to implement new environmental practices. By using recycled water they are able to cut back on the demand of the water supply.
Although these new mist sprays can’t eliminate the air pollution completely they do showcase how they plan on enhancing their urban design. Since air pollution is such a major concern in India, it will take many initiatives to actually reduce it but I am really pleased to see the effort.
According to the World Health Organization air pollution causes seven million premature deaths around the world each year. Which is why making these changes is incredibly important for the people and life quality.
I am interested to see how these systems improve the air quality, and if the city is able to keep up with it. As someone who travels to India almost every year I am looking forward to feeling a difference in the air.
Keywords: Air Pollution in India, New Delhi Air, Urban strategy
Writing About the Environment 