Illegal industrial units in West Delhi sealed following MCD drone mapping survey

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has launched a drone-based enforcement drive to identify and clamp down on illegal and polluting jeans dyeing and washing units operating in non-conforming and redevelopment industrial areas in West Delhi, officials said on Thursday. The aerial survey, conducted between February 16 and 20, covered Khyala, Vishnu Garden, Ranhola, Baprola, and Bindapur , where many units operate without proper permissions or wastewater treatment facilities.

Officials said the high-resolution drone imaging allowed teams to monitor rooftops, upper floors, and concealed operations that routinely escape conventional inspections. During this operation, 11 water-polluting units were sealed and their electricity connections disconnected. In the past three months, the West Zone has closed a total of 88 such units, and authorities said action against the remaining 29 suspected illegal operations identified in the drone survey will continue this week.

The MCD emphasized that these enforcement actions are part of a broader initiative to protect public health and the environment , as illegal dyeing and washing units significantly contribute to pollution. Studies indicate that such units account for approximately 15–20% of water pollution in Delhi’s drains and Yamuna River, 10–15% of groundwater contamination , and around 5% of air pollution , while the rest stems from sewage, vehicular emissions, crop burning, and other industrial activities . The untreated effluents from these units contain dyes, heavy metals, and toxic chemicals, posing risks to both residents and aquatic life .

A joint enforcement drive, conducted under directives from the Lieutenant Governor , involved the MCD, Sub-Divisional Magistrates, Delhi Pollution Control Committee, Delhi Police, BSES, and Delhi Jal Board. Officials said that under its “zero tolerance” policy , unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology will remain a key tool to monitor hidden industrial pollution, strengthen evidence collection, and enhance regulatory efficiency in densely populated areas.

This initiative underscores the city administration’s commitment to reducing pollution and safeguarding Delhi’s water, air, and public health , demonstrating that drone technology is not just a monitoring tool but a vital part of enforcement for residents’ welfare.