Delhi govt to install air purifiers to curb hazardous pollution levels in air while experts doubt its potential capacity

To curb choking levels of pollution, Delhi government will install air purifiers and mist-making devices at major road intersections in the city.  As residents of Delhi gear up for one of the most awaited festival of the year Diwali which is marked by ear-splitting fireworks that leaves dark trails of smoke.

“We are planning to install air purifiers at five major intersections in Delhi to reduce pollution levels,” said Delhi health minister Satyendra Jain.

Jain also urged the residents not to light crackers this Diwali on Sunday, citing the hazardous levels of pollution in the city and the respiratory problems that it can cause.

Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) also issued a warning on Friday on “the deadly impact” of letting off firecrackers at the onset of winter. However experts have questioned Delhi government's plan to install air purifiers in major intersections and termed it as a 'red herring’.

The experts drew attention towards the potential capacity, or 'zone of influence' of such devices. They stressed on controlling pollution at the source, like farm fires, vehicle pollution, etc.