CAQM For Stricter Dust Mitigation Across Delhi
Representational image (Pixabay)
YMAM Desk
New Delhi, December 14, 2025:
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has identified significant gaps in the upkeep of several road stretches maintained by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) after inspecting 136 roads across the national capital as part of its enforcement drive under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
The inspection was carried out on December 12 through 19 flying squad teams comprising officials from CAQM and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), focusing on visible dust accumulation, municipal solid waste (MSW), construction and demolition (C&D) waste, and instances of open burning.
According to the consolidated inspection report, 15 road stretches recorded high levels of visible dust, while 38 showed moderate dust accumulation and 61 stretches had low dust levels.
Twenty-two stretches were found to be free from visible dust.
Accumulation of MSW was observed on 55 road stretches, while C&D waste was found on 53 stretches. Evidence of MSW or biomass burning was reported at six locations.
The Commission noted that these findings point to recurring negligence and systemic gaps in road maintenance by the DDA. It stressed the need for the agency to improve operational efficiency and ensure consistent and timely dust mitigation measures across all stretches under its jurisdiction.
CAQM observed that such lapses directly contribute to elevated particulate matter levels in Delhi’s air.
It emphasised the need for strengthened on-ground action, including regular mechanical sweeping, prompt disposal of collected dust, proper maintenance of road shoulders and central verges, and the deployment of water-sprinkling and dust-suppression systems.
Focused action to prevent open burning of MSW and biomass was also underscored.
Reiterating its commitment to air quality enforcement, the Commission said that targeted inspection exercises under ‘Operation Clean Air’ will continue to ensure strict compliance with statutory directions on dust control and prevention of open burning, with the objective of keeping Delhi’s roads clean and pollution-free.