For the first time in Uttarakhand, the Pollution Control Board (PCB) used drones to spray water in the air to reduce dust and pollutants. This initiative was carried out in one location each in the Kumaon and Garhwal regions. PCB claims it’s a pioneering effort in the state.
To monitor air and noise quality ahead of Diwali, PCB has been closely observing conditions in Dehradun, Rishikesh, Kashipur, Tehri, Rudrapur, Haldwani, and Nainital since October 24. In Dehradun and Kashipur, drones were deployed to spray water periodically, aiming to improve air quality.
In Dehradun, water spraying was conducted every two hours at key areas like ISBT, Dilaram Chowk, Rajpur, Jogiwala, Nehru Colony, and Bengali Kothi, with drones carrying 11 liters per spray. Similarly, in Kashipur, spraying was conducted from 8 AM to 5 PM at Rajkiya Hospital and Chhatri Chowk. PCB plans to expand this effort to Rishikesh as well.
Benefits of Improved Air Quality Index (AQI)
Improvements in AQI can lead to a reduction in pollutants, lowering the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Cleaner air positively impacts life expectancy and health, enabling people to live healthier lives. It also benefits the environment, reducing pollution in plants, water sources, and soil, thus helping maintain ecological balance.
PCB Member Secretary Dr. Parag Madhukar Dhakate stated, “Using drones to spray water in targeted areas of Dehradun and Kashipur has helped reduce dust particles and other pollutants, addressing air quality concerns effectively.”
