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The Delhi government has taken a bold step to address rising air pollution levels by requiring anti-smog guns to be installed in high-rise structures taller than 45 meters. The directive, issued under the Unified Building Bye-Laws for Delhi 2016, applies to both new and existing projects. Developers have been instructed to incorporate these pollution-control measures during the construction phase itself. The requirement also extends to previously completed high-rises, reflecting the government's broadened approach to environmental compliance. The move comes amidst persistent air quality concerns and a push for stricter enforcement in the capital's real estate sector.
In a fresh bid to fight Delhi's worsening air pollution, the city government has made it compulsory for developers to install anti-smog guns in all buildings taller than 45 metres. This measure was introduced under the Unified Building Bye-Laws for Delhi 2016, aiming to minimise airborne dust and particulate matter in construction zones and high-rise areas. Advertisement
The directive was issued by the Delhi government's environment department earlier this week and is now applicable to all future high-rise developments, irrespective of whether they are residential, commercial, or institutional in nature. Developers have been instructed to ensure the inclusion of anti-smog guns from the construction phase itself.
Officials clarified that this mandate would not be limited to buildings currently under construction. The government has also extended the requirement to complete high-rises across the city. This marks a significant departure from previous policies where pollution control measures were largely restricted to active construction sites.
The anti-smog guns, which disperse water droplets to suppress dust, must be operational throughout the construction period. The authorities have also asked developers to maintain records and furnish proof of compliance upon request.
In an earlier initiative to combat pollution, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) had directed construction firms to adopt dust-control technologies at large-scale project sites. During the peak of the winter pollution crisis last year, real estate and infrastructure projects were temporarily halted under GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) Stage III norms due to excessive pollution levels.
Industry experts noted that the latest move underscores a shift from reactive to preventive environmental policy. They stated that while the use of anti-smog guns during construction has been encouraged for several years, the new regulation brings greater accountability and permanent infrastructure requirements.
Environmental watchdogs have praised the move, suggesting that such measures could significantly improve air quality over time if enforced rigorously. Developers may now face penalties for non-compliance under existing environmental norms and guidelines.
By extending the rule to both under-construction and completed structures, authorities are signalling a clear shift toward lasting pollution control measures. This initiative not only aligns with national pollution-reduction goals but also presses the real estate sector to take greater ownership of its environmental impact. If enforced effectively, this could set a precedent for other cities grappling with similar urban air quality issues.
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