NDMC to put up panels to display pollution level, weather info

In consonance with its aim of smart development of areas under its jurisdiction, especially Connaught Place, the New Delhi Municipal Council is planning to install display panels which will monitor pollution level and show weather updates.
The panels will be installed on the walls of some tall buildings in the area, and NDMC, which will outsource the task, has already issued an 'Expression of Interest'.
"We are in the process of identifying some of the taller buildings in our areas, especially in Connaught Place and Khan Market. The panels will display information on pollution level, weather, and will also showcase cultural events, if any, of the day," said a senior NDMC official who is handling the project.

The buildings which have a facade facing the public spaces will be chosen for installing the panels, he said.
The plan is part of NDMC's vision of a 'smart city' in line with the Prime Minister's '100 smart cities' project.
Last month, NDMC had launched two services in Connaught Place, one of the significant business and leisure centres in the city, under its 'smart city' vision. While Wi-Fi service was launched on November 17, 'Variable Message Signs' (VSS) were installed late last month.

VSS are parking vacancy information boards which are installed near the parking lots in Connaught Place and one at Baba Kharak Singh Marg, the official said, adding they will display the parking status in the area and specific information about the nearest available parking space.

"We are conducting an experiment in some areas to check the system and depending on the feedback, the system will be replicated in other areas under our jurisdiction," he said.
The civic body will also come up with advance booking of parking lots through a mobile application soon. The NDMC has also identified 40 buildings for installation of rooftop solar panels. The buildings housing NDMC schools, sub-stations, inquiry offices and hospitals belong to the civic body.
Regarding the display panels, the official said besides figuring out the costing and maintenance, the civic body would have to take permission from Delhi Police. "We want a proper system in place that would help residents avail improved service delivery and infrastructure and give them a healthy lifestyle," he said.