The Noida Authority has allocated ₹38 crore to implement several measures aimed at reducing air pollution during the winter season, officials announced on Monday. These steps will include the procurement of anti-smog guns, hybrid smoke guns, and water sprinklers to curb pollution when the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is enforced.
In addition, ₹10 crore will be set aside for road resurfacing and pothole repairs to ease traffic congestion, a known contributor to vehicular pollution. According to Lokesh M, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Noida Authority, these initiatives are part of the authority’s commitment to mitigating air pollution during winter.
“We have already acquired five anti-smog guns and plan to purchase 10 more soon. Additionally, tenders will be issued to procure 12 hybrid smog guns,” the CEO stated. Hybrid anti-smog guns spray fine mist or water droplets to reduce particulate matter and other pollutants in the air.
The authority will also deploy water sprinkling methods from high-rise buildings, enhancing dust suppression. “Typically, water is sprayed from the ground, covering limited areas. Sprinkling from a higher point will improve efficiency,” the CEO added.
Road repairs and resurfacing are also prioritized, as heavy rains have damaged many roads, resulting in potholes that disrupt traffic flow and increase emissions. A key project will involve transforming the Sector 62 to Mamura stretch into a model road by redesigning the area, clearing encroachments, and constructing a foot-over bridge (FOB).
The authority will also focus on environmental rejuvenation by restoring three ponds located in Sorkha, Sultanpur, and Asgharpur villages. The Sorkha pond, covering 8,041 square meters, will have a project cost of ₹12.94 crore. The Sultanpur pond, spread across 11,000 square meters, will require ₹5.37 crore, while the Asgharpur pond, occupying 2,000 square meters, will have a budget of ₹68 lakh. Tenders for these projects will be issued soon to hire developers for de-silting and restoration work.
As of Monday, Noida recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 121, Greater Noida 126, and Ghaziabad 163, all falling within the “moderate” category. These efforts align with the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) to combat pollution effectively.
