What Actions is CAQM Taking to Combat Dust Pollution in Delhi?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As pollution levels rise alarmingly in Delhi, CAQM's recent inspection drive highlights the urgent need for enhanced dust control measures. With findings showing varying dust levels across inspected road stretches, the commission emphasizes the importance of proactive actions to mitigate air quality issues. Discover the details of this initiative and its implications for the city's air quality.
Key Takeaways
- CAQM's inspection drive targets dust pollution in Delhi.
- A total of 321 road stretches were analyzed for dust levels.
- Findings indicate varying degrees of dust across different regions.
- Agencies are urged to intensify dust mitigation efforts.
- Ongoing inspections will ensure compliance with air quality standards.
New Delhi, Nov 30 (NationPress) As the national capital confronts escalating pollution levels that have become a significant concern for residents, 26 Flying Squads from the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) launched a targeted inspection initiative across various districts of Delhi, as per an official announcement on Sunday.
This inspection took place on Saturday as part of the Commission’s continuous enforcement efforts aimed at enhancing on-the-ground monitoring and intensifying dust control measures under the existing statutory framework and the current GRAP regulations.
According to the CAQM press release, the goal of this initiative was to evaluate visible dust accumulation on roadways and assess the effectiveness of cleaning, sweeping, and dust-suppression strategies being implemented by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), and Central Public Works Department (CPWD).
A total of 321 road sections were reviewed across the jurisdictions of the three agencies. Geo-tagged and time-stamped photographic evidence was collected and submitted to the Commission as part of a comprehensive inspection report.
The compiled data revealed that 35 road stretches exhibited high visible dust levels, 61 showed moderate dust, 94 recorded low dust intensity, while 131 stretches were found to have no visible dust.
Within the MCD, which accounted for the most inspected roads (182), 35 stretches reflected a high level of visible dust intensity, 50 were moderate, 70 recorded low dust, and 27 stretches showed no visible dust.
On the other hand, the NDMC area demonstrated better performance, inspecting 133 road stretches, of which 100 showed no visible dust, 24 recorded low dust, and 9 had moderate dust intensity, with no stretches categorized under high dust intensity.
Similarly, the CPWD, with a jurisdiction covering only 6 roads, recorded no high-dust stretches, 2 with moderate visible dust, and 4 with no visible dust intensity.
The CAQM emphasized that road dust is a significant contributor to particulate matter in Delhi, particularly during the winter months.
The Commission has instructed the concerned agencies, especially the MCD, to enhance efforts under 'Operation Clean Air' by ensuring regular mechanical sweeping, proper pavement maintenance, timely disposal of collected dust, and consistent water sprinkling or dust suppression measures on all road stretches to strictly comply with dust-mitigation standards.
Ongoing inspection initiatives will continue to ensure adherence to these guidelines.
Point of View
The issue of air pollution in Delhi is critically important. The CAQM's proactive approach through inspection drives demonstrates a commitment to improving air quality. While challenges remain, this initiative reflects a necessary response to a growing public health concern, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts in pollution control. The nation must remain vigilant and support measures that prioritize clean air for all citizens.
NationPress
30/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of CAQM's inspection drive?
The CAQM's inspection drive aims to evaluate visible dust accumulation on roads and assess the effectiveness of dust control measures implemented by various governmental agencies.
How many road stretches were inspected?
A total of 321 road stretches were inspected across the jurisdictions of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, New Delhi Municipal Council, and Central Public Works Department.
What are the findings regarding dust levels?
The inspection revealed that 35 road stretches had high visible dust levels, 61 showed moderate dust, 94 recorded low dust intensity, and 131 stretches had no visible dust.
What actions is the CAQM directing agencies to take?
The CAQM is directing agencies, particularly the MCD, to enhance mechanical sweeping, pavement maintenance, timely dust disposal, and regular water sprinkling to comply with dust mitigation norms.
Why is road dust a concern in Delhi?
Road dust is a major contributor to particulate matter pollution in Delhi, especially during the winter months, which can negatively impact public health.
