In a major step towards tackling dust pollution, the Delhi Government has launched Dust Portal 2.0, an AI-powered digital platform that will enable real-time monitoring of construction and demolition (C&D) sites across the national capital. The upgraded system, developed by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), integrates artificial intelligence, GIS mapping, 360-degree cameras and pollution sensors to improve compliance with dust mitigation norms and strengthen environmental enforcement.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated the portal at the Delhi Secretariat, stating that the platform marks a shift from manual inspections to technology-driven governance. She said 360-degree cameras and sensors installed at construction sites will continuously transmit real-time data to the DPCC, allowing authorities to receive instant alerts and take prompt action against violations. According to the Chief Minister, Delhi has nearly 1,800 registered construction sites, of which around 800–900 are currently active, and nearly 800 sites have already been integrated with the new monitoring system.
Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said construction and demolition activities remain one of the largest contributors to dust pollution in Delhi. Under Dust Portal 2.0, all construction sites measuring 500 square yards or more will be monitored using AI-based surveillance. The upgraded platform combines camera feeds, local pollution sensors and GIS technology to automate compliance monitoring, detect violations and notify authorities if dust control systems or monitoring equipment malfunction.
A key enhancement in the new version is the introduction of a mobile application, making the portal accessible beyond desktop systems. The platform will also provide detailed information on construction projects, including the number of floors under construction, project status and compliance records, enabling faster inspections and greater transparency in enforcement. Officials said the digital database will help regulators verify whether mandatory dust suppression measures, such as water sprinkling, barricading and covering of construction materials, are being implemented effectively.
The launch of Dust Portal 2.0 forms part of the Delhi Government’s broader ‘Clean Air, Healthy Delhi’ initiative. Sirsa noted that the government is working with the World Bank on a seven-year action plan to improve air quality and has also undertaken measures such as strengthening public transport, promoting electric mobility and expanding green cover through large-scale plantation drives. He said the AI-enabled portal would significantly improve monitoring, compliance and enforcement while supporting the capital’s long-term air pollution control strategy.
The deployment of AI-driven surveillance and automated alerts, the Delhi Government expects Dust Portal 2.0 to enhance accountability at construction sites, reduce dust emissions and enable quicker regulatory action. The initiative represents a significant advancement in the use of digital technologies to address one of the city’s major sources of air pollution while promoting cleaner and more sustainable urban development.
