NHAI Strengthens Air Pollution Control Measures Across Delhi-NCR through Intensified Dust-Control Measures and Faster Decongestion of National Highways

Ministry of Road Transport & Highways NHAI Strengthens Air Pollution Control Measures Across Delhi-NCR through Intensified Dust-Control Measures and Faster Decongestion of National Highways

Posted On: 22 OCT 2026 4:47PM by PIB Delhi To strengthen air pollution control across National Highways and Expressways in Delhi- NCR ahead of the winter season, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has deployed around 60 water sprinklers and tankers, 14 anti-smog guns, 23 Mechanical Road Sweeping Machines (MRSMs), two tractor-mounted broomers and over 900 workers to support dust mitigation efforts. In addition, 13 MRSMs are operating across 157 km of National Highway stretches within Delhi NCR.

Shri Alok Deepankar, Member (Technical), NHAI, reviewed the pollution-control measures and directed field teams to ensure full deployment of equipment, manpower and water sprinkling, regular operation of anti-smog guns and daily mechanical sweeping. He also emphasised strict compliance with norms established by Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in Delhi-NCR, which includes covering of construction materials, maintenance of dust-free road surfaces and intensified measures as per applicable GRAP stages. NHAI officials have been directed to monitor activities daily and submit progress reports with geo-tagged photographs.

As part of its environmental initiatives, NHAI has planted around 9.80 lakh plants in NCR during FY 2025-26 against a target of 9.52 lakh, achieving survival rates of over 90 percent.

Further, around 13.58 lakh tonnes of inert material from Delhi's landfill sites have been utilised in the embankment construction of UER-II and DND–Sohna corridors, supporting sustainable waste utilisation.

The review also covered major decongestion projects including UER-II, Dwarka Expressway, DND–Sohna Expressway and Delhi–Dehradun Expressway, which are helping to reduce traffic congestion and vehicular emission in Delhi-NCR. Expeditious progress of proposed decongestion projects and prompt resolution of public complaints received through the Green Delhi app and Social Media platforms were also emphasised.

NHAI remains committed to reducing dust pollution, improving air quality and facilitating smoother traffic movement across Delhi-NCR in the winter season.Anti-smog gun in operation Mechanical road sweeping Plantation Embankment laid with inert material *** GDH/DS/HJ (Release ID: 2326657)Visitor Counter : 380

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