In a significant move to tackle Delhi’s persistent air pollution crisis, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has approved the redeployment of Civil Defence Volunteers (CDVs) for a four-month period, from November 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025. This decision comes as a reversal of the previous termination of their services, which had been scheduled for November 1, 2023.

The redeployment is part of broader efforts to mitigate air quality issues in the capital, with CDVs expected to play a key role in supporting various environmental and public safety initiatives. The approval also follows Saxena’s ongoing concerns about improving safety and security in public spaces, particularly regarding the functioning of bus marshals.

In addition to reinstating the CDVs, Saxena has called on the Delhi government to establish a dedicated scheme for bus marshals. In letters to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, dated October 24 and November 2, 2024, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised the need for a well-defined framework that clearly outlines the roles, responsibilities, and service conditions for marshals. The statement from Raj Niwas also indicated that Saxena has pushed for the creation of official posts and adequate budgetary allocations to ensure the initiative’s long-term success.

The decision to remove over 10,000 CDVs, who had previously been deployed as bus marshals, was made after objections from the Directorate of Civil Defence. The Directorate had argued that CDVs should be focused on disaster management rather than public transport security. Last year, the Lieutenant Governor approved the proposal to terminate the volunteers’ roles as marshals, recommending they be redirected to other areas, such as the 10,000 home guard positions that had been sanctioned by the government.

While the redeployment of the CDVs to address air pollution is seen as a step forward in tackling the city’s pressing environmental issues, the call for a dedicated scheme for bus marshals highlights ongoing efforts to improve both security and management in Delhi’s public transport system. Saxena’s recent directives signal a more structured approach to addressing these challenges and making more efficient use of available resources.