NHAI Strengthens Air Pollution Control Measures Across Delhi-NCR
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has intensified its air pollution control measures across National Highways and Expressways in Delhi-NCR ahead of the winter season. The authority has deployed substantial resources including approximately 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. Additionally, 13 MRSMs are operating across 157 km of National Highway stretches within Delhi NCR.
Shri Alok Deepankar, Member (Technical) of NHAI, reviewed the pollution-control measures and directed field teams to ensure full deployment of equipment, manpower, and water sprinkling operations. He emphasized regular operation of anti-smog guns and daily mechanical sweeping, along with strict compliance with norms established by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in Delhi-NCR. These norms include covering construction materials, maintaining dust-free road surfaces, and implementing intensified measures according to applicable GRAP stages. NHAI officials have been instructed to monitor activities daily and submit progress reports accompanied by geo-tagged photographs.
As part of its environmental initiatives, NHAI reported significant achievements in plantation, having planted approximately 9.80 lakh plants in NCR during FY 2025-26 against a target of 9.52 lakh, achieving survival rates exceeding 90%. The authority has also utilized around 13.58 lakh tonnes of inert material from Delhi's landfill sites in the embankment construction of UER-II and DND–Sohna corridors, supporting sustainable waste utilization practices.
The review also covered major decongestion projects including UER-II, Dwarka Expressway, DND–Sohna Expressway, and Delhi–Dehradun Expressway, which are contributing to reduced traffic congestion and vehicular emissions in Delhi-NCR. Emphasis was placed on expediting progress of proposed decongestion projects and prompt resolution of public complaints received through the Green Delhi app and social media platforms.