DUST Portal 2.0 to Bring Real-Time Surveillance, Pollution Tracking and Accountability
In a major technology-driven push to tackle pollution and strengthen environmental compliance, the Delhi Government is preparing to launch an artificial intelligence-powered monitoring platform aimed at keeping round-the-clock watch on construction sites across the national capital. The initiative, called DUST Portal 2.0, is being developed by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and is expected to go live in the coming weeks.
The platform will use AI-enabled cameras, particulate matter (PM) sensors, automated audits and real-time analytics to monitor whether construction projects are following mandatory dust-control measures. Authorities say the move is designed to improve transparency, accountability and enforcement in one of Delhi’s biggest sources of air pollution.
AI Cameras, Sensors and Live Monitoring
According to officials, the portal will enable 24×7 surveillance of registered construction sites and monitor critical compliance requirements such as the installation of high-density green anti-dust nets, anti-smog guns and other pollution-control mechanisms. The system will also be linked to PM2.5 and PM10 monitoring infrastructure to assess the environmental impact of individual projects in real time.
One of the key features of the platform is its AI-based alert mechanism. Automatic warnings will be generated whenever pollution levels cross prescribed limits or when compliance failures are detected, allowing authorities to initiate immediate corrective action.
QR Code-Based Tracking for Every Site
The Delhi Government is also introducing a QR code-based monitoring system as part of the portal. Every registered construction site will receive a unique QR code that can be scanned by field officers to instantly access project details, compliance history, audit reports and environmental performance records. Officials believe this will significantly improve inspection efficiency while reducing manual monitoring gaps.
Government Focuses on Accountability
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, who recently reviewed the project, stated that the objective is not merely data collection but ensuring accountability at every construction site operating within the city. He emphasised that development projects cannot come at the cost of public health and that technology must play a central role in enforcing environmental norms.
The initiative is being positioned as part of the Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government’s broader effort to deploy advanced technology in governance, environmental protection and public infrastructure monitoring.
Delhi Moves Towards Technology-Led Governance
The proposed portal reflects a larger shift towards AI-assisted governance in the capital, where authorities are increasingly relying on digital monitoring systems, real-time dashboards and automated enforcement mechanisms to improve civic administration.
For Delhi, where construction dust remains one of the largest contributors to deteriorating air quality, the success of DUST Portal 2.0 could become a significant test case for how artificial intelligence can be used to balance urban development with environmental responsibility.
As the city prepares for another season of pollution concerns, the government appears determined to place technology at the centre of its battle for cleaner air.
