Delhi Metro spent Rs 1.17 crore on 20 anti-smog guns in capital: RTI

An RTI reply shows that the DMRC spent Rs 1.17 crore on 20 anti-smog guns at Delhi Metro stations. The disclosures also highlight that spending on 143 mist spray systems is yet to be consolidated.

In Short

• 30 anti-smog guns installed across Metro stations in Delhi
• Contractors installed 10 of these guns, bearing related costs
• Delhi Metro also set up 143 mist spray systems across city

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has spent Rs 1.17 crore on installing 20 anti-smog guns at metro stations across Delhi as part of measures to control dust and air pollution, according to information obtained under the Right to Information Act.

In its reply to an RTI application filed by environmental activist Amit Gupta, the DMRC said a total of 30 anti-smog guns have been installed at metro stations in the national capital. It also said that 143 mist spray systems have been set up at various stations.

The information was provided in replies issued on June 1 and June 19. Of the 30 anti-smog guns, 20 were installed by the DMRC at a cost of Rs 1.17 crore, while the remaining 10 were installed by contractors, with the cost borne by them, the replies said.

However, the corporation said it could not provide the total amount spent on the mist spray systems. It said the systems were installed at different locations under multiple maintenance contracts, and that the cost varies depending on the location and the nature of the work involved.

The DMRC said records of the expenditure are maintained by different field units and would have to be collected from multiple contracts. It also said certification and payment processes for some installations are still underway, and so a consolidated expenditure figure is not available at present.

The metro operator added that all dust-control measures prescribed by the Delhi government from time to time are being implemented at its construction sites. Overall, the RTI replies show that the DMRC has installed anti-smog guns and mist spray systems at metro stations, while spending details for the mist systems are yet to be consolidated.

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