Delhi Battles Pollution: Anti-Smog Guns Deployed Under GRAP-1
Delhi scales up anti-smog gun use to fight air pollution under GRAP-1, mandating installation on tall buildings to suppress dust.
As the air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) begins to deteriorate, the Delhi government has intensified its fight against pollution by scaling up the deployment of Delhi anti-smog gun deployment. This move comes as the city operates under the first phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-1), which was officially implemented across the region on October 21, 2026.
Mandatory Installation for High-Rises
In a significant policy shift, the Delhi government has mandated that all private and government buildings taller than G+5 stories must install anti-smog guns. This directive applies to a wide range of structures, including:
- Shopping malls
- Hotels
- Corporate offices
- Educational institutions
Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa personally oversaw the implementation of these measures, inspecting water mist systems and anti-smog guns in the NDMC area on October 19, 2026, to ensure readiness.
The Scale of Investment and Operations
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has revealed an ambitious plan to operate these devices for roughly 10 months of the year. To achieve this, the government is investing over 150 crore rupees to rent more than 1,100 units.
Current Deployment Status
Multiple agencies are currently working on the ground to suppress dust and pollutants:
- Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD): Has deployed 40 anti-smog guns and 167 water sprinklers.
- National Highways Authority of India (NHAI): Utilizing 14 anti-smog guns, 60 water sprinklers and tankers, 23 mechanical road sweeping machines, and a workforce of over 900 people.
The Water Crisis and Systemic Challenges
Despite the technological push, a massive logistical hurdle remains: water supply. Operating between 250 and 600 anti-smog guns would require a staggering 2.5 to 9 million liters of water every single day, posing a significant challenge for city utilities.
Furthermore, officials and experts from the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) have cautioned that these guns are merely auxiliary tools. They are designed to suppress dust but cannot clear the air entirely or solve root issues such as:
"Anti-smog guns are not a substitute for systemic control measures."
Issues like poor road maintenance, violations of construction rules, and inadequate sanitation continue to plague the city. This sentiment echoes a March 2026 report from the Prime Minister's Office, which flagged serious deficiencies in dust control and warned of strict action against negligent officials.
Upcoming Restrictions: BS-4 and 'No PUC, No Fuel'
The battle against smog is set to intensify starting November 1, 2026. The Delhi government plans to introduce the following restrictions:
- Emission Standards: Vehicles with emission standards lower than BS-4 will be restricted.
- Fuel Policy: Strict enforcement of a 'No PUC, No Fuel' policy to ensure only compliant vehicles are on the road.
However, these moves have met with some resistance. The All India Motor and Goods Transport Association (AIMGTA) has requested a 15-day pilot project to scientifically assess the impact of these restrictions before they are permanently finalized.
Despite these ongoing struggles and the reliance on auxiliary technology, there is a glimmer of hope. Data from October 26, 2026, indicates that pollution levels in Delhi this October are lower than those recorded in previous years.