In a strategic move to tackle dust pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has entered into a tripartite agreement with the CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) and the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA). Signed on Tuesday, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aims to implement a standardised urban road redevelopment framework across key NCR cities.

The initiative will focus on paving and greening footpaths and sidewalks—measures considered vital for reducing road dust, a significant contributor to poor air quality. A Project Monitoring Cell (PMC) will be set up within CAQM, supported technically and institutionally by CRRI and SPA. The PMC will oversee the phased rollout of the programme across selected cities.

In the initial phase, nine cities have been shortlisted: Delhi, Faridabad, Gurugram, Sonipat, Ghaziabad, Noida, Greater Noida, Bhiwadi, and Neemrana. These cities were chosen in consultation with state governments and the Delhi administration, based on their dense urban and industrial presence.

The redevelopment framework comprises scientific redesign of road cross-sections, integration of green buffers along the right of way (ROW), and use of a web-based Road Asset Management System (RAMS) for regular monitoring and maintenance. Emphasis will also be placed on adopting new construction technologies for better dust control.

CRRI and SPA will assist with recruitment, training, and continuous project guidance. A digital dashboard is also planned to enable real-time tracking of progress on individual projects.

Officials stressed that transforming urban roads with science-backed designs, sustainable greenery, and modern construction techniques is crucial for controlling road dust and achieving long-term improvements in regional air quality.