In a major technology-driven push to tackle air pollution, the Delhi government is exploring a collaboration with IIT Kanpur to identify pollution sources using Artificial Intelligence (AI). The initiative aims to move beyond reactive measures and adopt a data-backed, real-time, and scientific approach to air quality management in the national capital.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the proposed partnership will focus on accurately identifying pollution sources and assessing their impact, enabling targeted and timely action across sectors. The Environment Department is ready to work on a clear roadmap, institutional framework, and phased implementation plan for the collaboration.
From Firefighting to Prevention
“We are moving towards a model where decisions are not based on emergency responses alone, but on real-time data, precise source identification, and measurable outcomes,” Sirsa said. According to him, AI-based systems will help authorities predict pollution trends and guide corrective action before the situation worsens.
Dynamic Source Apportionment at the Core
A key pillar of the proposed plan is dynamic source apportionment, which will scientifically assess pollution contributions from dust, vehicles, industries, biomass burning, and regional factors. This will allow agencies to act directly against the actual sources instead of imposing blanket bans.
Better Coordination, Faster Action
The initiative also emphasizes multi-agency coordination, ensuring municipal bodies, district administrations, enforcement agencies, and technical institutions work on a shared data platform with clearly defined roles and accountability.
“When every agency works on the same scientific evidence, action becomes faster, sharper, and more effective,” Sirsa noted.
Four-Front Strategy Already Underway
The Delhi government is simultaneously working on four major fronts:
●Vehicular emissions
●Dust control at construction sites
●Polluting industries
●Waste and landfill management
Measures such as mechanical road sweeping, strict dust norms at construction sites, mist spray systems, anti-smog mechanisms, and large-scale biomining at landfills are already being implemented. Around 35 metric tonnes of legacy waste are being processed daily, significantly reducing landfill pressure.
Officials say the AI-led collaboration with IIT Kanpur could mark a turning point in Delhi’s fight against air pollution, shifting the focus from short-term fixes to long-term prevention.
