Clean Air, Healthy Delhi: Rs 8,300-Crore Plan Targets Pollution at Its Source

The Delhi government on Friday launched an orientation workshop for its ambitious Rs 8,300-crore 'Clean Air, Healthy Delhi' programme , marking the formal start of preparations for one of the capital's largest air pollution mitigation initiatives. Backed by the World Bank , the seven-year project aims to strengthen pollution control systems while improving public health and urban sustainability.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta described the programme as a long-term, science-based strategy to tackle Delhi's persistent air quality challenges. Scheduled for implementation between September 2026 and August 2033 , the project will be financed through a 65 per cent World Bank loan , with the remaining 35 per cent funded by the Delhi government.

During the workshop, the World Bank formally handed over the Project Preparation Grant Facility confirmation, enabling departments to begin detailed planning under international implementation standards.

Addressing officials from multiple agencies, Gupta stressed that clean air is a shared responsibility , requiring coordinated action across departments. She said the initiative focuses on reducing pollution at its source, expanding data-driven monitoring, improving enforcement through technology and encouraging greater public participation.

The programme has been structured around two major pillars . The first seeks to strengthen Delhi's air quality management through expanded monitoring networks, advanced analytics, an integrated command centre, better inter-agency coordination and greater public awareness. The second targets major pollution sources by phasing out ageing vehicles , promoting electric mobility, improving public transport, strengthening emission-testing systems, controlling road and construction dust, and enhancing waste management.

Representatives from the Department of Economic Affairs , Delhi Pollution Control Committee , Municipal Corporation of Delhi , Public Works Department , Transport Department , NDMC , Delhi Transco Limited , and the World Bank participated in technical sessions covering procurement, financial management, environmental safeguards and institutional preparedness.

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa noted that 21 per cent of Delhi's 2026-27 green budget , exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore, has been allocated to clean air, environmental improvement and Yamuna rejuvenation . He said collaboration with the World Bank would help Delhi adopt global best practices while building lasting resilience against pollution and climate-related challenges.