Ludhiana, Nov. 10 -- At a time when Ludhiana is battling hazardous air pollution due to Diwali celebrations and stubble burning, anti-smog guns purchased by the municipal corporation (MC) to combat air pollution have been gathering dust at the MC workshops at Dholewal chowk and Hambran.

The anti-smog guns were introduced by the civic body in September 2022 under the Centre National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). Five large and two small machines were purchased for around Rs.1.15 crore. The equipment was intended to combat dust pollution and help control deteriorating air quality during seasonal pollution episodes, including the festive season and harvesting period. The machines were used for a few times, but later left to gather dust, said ...