NHAI issues SoP to mitigate air pollution on Delhi-NCR highways

In a bid to create cleaner surroundings for commuters and nearby communities, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has rolled out a comprehensive standard operating procedure (SoP) to tackle air pollution linked to highway construction and related activities in Delhi-NCR.

The new guidelines provide a systematic plan to control emissions from vehicles, road dust and construction work. These will apply to all completed and ongoing highway stretches under the NHAI’s jurisdiction in the region.

According to the SoP, pollution on already constructed highways will be reduced through mechanised road sweeping, plantation drives on medians and loop interchanges and the use of the Miyawaki method for dense forest creation along highways. It also calls for the use of tarpaulin sheets to cover construction material during transportation and routine road inspections to maintain pothole-free stretches, preventing further dust generation.

For ongoing construction sites, the SoP prescribes the use of anti-smog guns and continuous water sprinkling throughout the day. Construction materials are to be covered with green nets to curb airborne dust, while air quality at project sites will be regularly monitored in line with the standards of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and the Central and State Pollution Control

Boards. The guidelines also promote the use of inert materials and construction and demolition (C&D) waste to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable building practices.

The SoP clearly defines the responsibilities of NHAI field officers, authority engineers, contractors and concessionaires. It requires them to conduct frequent audits and inspections to ensure strict compliance. It also directs the organisation of training and awareness programmes for contractors and workers as well as addressing public complaints related to NHAI projects through the ‘Green Delhi App’.

A review meeting chaired by NHAI Member (Technical) Alok Deepankar was recently held to assess on-ground implementation. The meeting was attended by senior NHAI officials, contractors and consultants from across Delhi-NCR.

During the meeting, Deepankar urged all field officers and contractors to act immediately and intensively to control dust and vehicular pollution. He instructed them to deploy adequate manpower and equipment to meet the targets, stressing that environmental protection must remain a top priority.

Reiterating NHAI’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure, Deepankar said the aim was to achieve visible improvements in air quality around highways while balancing rapid development with ecological responsibility.