Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav today presided over the signing of four memorandum of understandings (MoUs) for the implementation of the Standard Framework and Road Asset Management System for Dust-free and Sustainable Urban Roads in Delhi-NCR. The MoUs are in line with the standard framework for paving and greening of urban roads issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas. It aims to improve road cross-sections, right-of-way utilisation, greening measures and road maintenance protocols across the NCR.
Addressing the ceremony, Mr Yadav said that air pollution is a major challenge in the Delhi-NCR region. The Minister stressed that dust is a major contributor to PM10 pollution in the region and added that roads most affected by traffic congestion and dust pollution should be scientifically mapped. Emphasising the role of greening, Mr Yadav said that bushes requiring less water should be planted in open areas.
The Minister appreciated the coordinated efforts of CAQM and NCR State Governments in advancing long-term structural measures for control of dust pollution from roads.
