Wed Dec 17 15:10:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the Delhi government’s plan to combat pollution and improve traffic, based on the provided text:
Delhi Government to Launch Carpooling App to Tackle Pollution
New Delhi: The Delhi government has unveiled a multi-pronged approach to combat rising pollution levels and improve traffic congestion in the city. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced plans to develop a carpooling application aimed at reducing the number of private vehicles on Delhi roads.
“The government will create a carpooling app to promote shared rides and reduce the number of private cars on the roads,” Sirsa said at a press conference. He also detailed plans to improve the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate system.
In addition to the app, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi will receive ₹2,700 crore over the next ten years to purchase mechanical road cleaning and waste collection machines.
An Integrated Traffic Management System is also in the works, in collaboration with the Traffic Police. This system aims to reduce traffic congestion by adjusting traffic light timings in real-time, particularly during periods of heavy congestion. “Currently, even during long traffic jams, traffic lights remain red for extended periods, exacerbating the problem,” Sirsa explained. “We are working on a system to reduce red light times during these situations.”
The government is focusing on addressing the four main sources of pollution in Delhi: vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, dust pollution, and solid waste pollution. The Public Works Department (PWD) has been directed to deploy 70 mechanical road sweeping machines and water sprinklers. Approximately 1,000 waste collection machines and 300 water sprinklers are also being deployed across the city.
The Delhi government is also coordinating with neighboring states to ensure a regional approach to air pollution control. “We are in contact with neighboring states and are trying to ensure that air quality improves there as well,” Sirsa stated.
Furthermore, the government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Madras to identify and develop ‘anti-smog’ surfaces that can help reduce pollution levels. These surfaces will be tested and implemented in select areas.
Sirsa also accused the Aam Aadmi Party of deliberately burning waste to increase pollution levels, calling on them to stop such politics.
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