New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has achieved an exceptional milestone by successfully maintaining an Air Quality Index (AQI) below 100 during the G20 Summit held in the heart of New Delhi. Vijay Gaur, the Bureau Chief, reports on this remarkable accomplishment.

During the five days of the G20 Summit (5th - 9th September, 2023), NDMC's dedicated efforts ensured that, out of 20 locations monitored, the AQI remained below 100 in 17 of them, with only three locations showing slightly higher levels.

On the inaugural day of the G20 Leaders Summit, the NDMC area recorded an average AQI of 39.20, a testament to the council's rigorous measures.

This achievement was made possible through a comprehensive approach to environmental cleanliness. Approximately 2,100 sanitation workers, known as Safai Sevak, were deployed, with 1,000 specifically assigned to G20 identified roads and market areas. They worked tirelessly in three shifts to maintain round-the-clock cleanliness, emphasizing sanitation, hygiene, and an eco-friendly environment.

The NDMC team executed deep cleaning initiatives on 56 roads, including silt removal from roundabouts and triangular islands. Furthermore, the team ensured the double washing of both sides of footpaths on these roads using six Pressure Jet machine water tankers. Six Mechanical Road Sweepers (MRS) operated in two shifts daily to ensure clean road channels.

In the effort to combat dust and air pollution, 13 vehicles were dedicated to clearing Construction & Demolition Materials in NDMC. Four Anti-Smog Guns were also deployed to suppress dust on roads, contributing to a cleaner environment.

Garbage management played a pivotal role in this success, with 36 autotippers, 17 compactors, 10 open dumpers, and three loaders deployed for garbage collection, including horticulture waste. Additionally, 450 pairs of new litter bins were installed at various marketplaces and roadsides to discourage littering.

The NDMC Horticulture Green Team undertook a massive Tree Plantation Drive, planting 32 lakh shrubs and 3,100 tree saplings of different species during the monsoon season. Over one lakh potted plants were strategically placed in public areas to improve air quality and enhance the green cover of the city.

This incredible achievement in maintaining AQI below 100 was made possible by the dedicated and inspired workforce of NDMC, showcasing the power of teamwork and commitment to creating a cleaner and healthier environment during the G20 Summit in New Delhi.

Images Credit - PTI