CM inspects air pollution mitigation devices

New Delhi: Chief minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday inspected three made-in-India air pollution control technologies being tested as part of the Delhi govt’s 'Innovation Challenge’ initiative, where startups and innovators submitted ideas aimed at reducing particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) emissions.

Accompanied by environment minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Gupta reviewed an outdoor filter-free air purifier system, an EV-mounted anti-smog gun and a roadside vehicular emission control device installed at different locations in west Delhi.

“Delhi’s fight against pollution is not limited to winter months. It is a year-round commitment to ensuring clean air and better public health. The govt is focusing on scientific research, innovation and indigenous technologies alongside conventional pollution-control measures,” said the CM.

Gupta first inspected the STR-101 filter-free air purification system installed on Rama Road, where 21 units have been mounted on electricity poles along the central verge. The system is capable of reducing PM1, PM2.5, PM10, smoke, dust and harmful gases while processing nearly three lakh litres of air every hour. The purifier uses high-frequency chip technology and IoT-enabled live monitoring systems and does not require replacement filters or consumables.

She also inspected “India’s first EV-mounted anti-smog gun” operating on the Kirti Nagar-Mayapuri stretch. The system sprays ultra-fine water droplets to settle dust and airborne pollutants and is equipped with real-time PM sensors and automated controls.

Another technology reviewed by the CM was the PAWAN III roadside pollution-control device installed near Kirti Nagar fire station. The system captures vehicular emissions close to the source through a high-capacity suction mechanism before releasing cleaner air back into the atmosphere. Field trials conducted in Maharashtra reportedly recorded a reduction of nearly 29% in particulate pollution levels.