News Brief
NHAI Issues Comprehensive SOP To Curb Air Pollution From Highway Projects Across Delhi-NCR
Air pollution in Delhi-NCR. (File Photo)
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for its field offices in Delhi-NCR.
The newly issued SOP provides an extensive roadmap to reduce emissions arising from vehicular movement, road dust, and highway construction.
Applicable to both operational and under-construction stretches under NHAI’s jurisdiction.
To curb pollution on completed highways, the SOP directs the deployment of mechanised sweeping machines, greening of medians, and Miyawaki-style dense plantation drives along loops and interchanges.
It also requires the use of tarpaulin sheets during material transport, periodic inspections, and strict road maintenance to eliminate potholes, a major contributor to dust pollution.
At construction sites, the SOP prescribes regular water sprinkling, the use of anti-smog guns, and the covering of loose material with green nets to prevent particulate matter from becoming airborne.
Air quality monitoring at project sites will be mandatory, ensuring adherence to norms set by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and Pollution Control Boards.
The SOP clearly defines the accountability of field officers, authority engineers, contractors, and concessionaires in ensuring compliance through audits and inspections.
It also mandates training and awareness programmes for contractors and workers, along with a grievance redressal mechanism via the ‘Green Delhi App’.
During a recent review meeting chaired by Alok Deepankar, Member (Technical), NHAI, officials and contractors were instructed to take immediate and decisive measures to control dust and vehicular emissions.
He emphasised the need to mobilise adequate manpower and resources on a war footing to deliver tangible results.
