Dust and Negligence: DDA's Road Maintenance Under Fire

The Commission for Air Quality Management has criticized the Delhi Development Authority for negligence in road maintenance. Inspections revealed high dust levels, waste accumulation, and waste-burning on several roads. The CAQM demands improved dust mitigation and waste management to protect air quality in Delhi.

The Commission for Air Quality Management has taken the Delhi Development Authority to task over significant lapses in road maintenance within its jurisdiction. Following inspections, high dust levels, waste pile-ups, and waste-burning were detected across multiple road sections in the city.

In its 'Operation Clean Air' initiative, CAQM deployed 19 teams from its flying squads and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee to inspect roads managed by the DDA. Over the course of December 12, 136 road stretches were scrutinized, with findings documented through geo-tagged and time-stamped photographs.

The inspections revealed visible dust on 53 stretches, with additional concerns over waste accumulation and burning. To address these issues, the CAQM directed the DDA to intensify road maintenance efforts, emphasizing the necessity for mechanical sweeping, responsible dust disposal, and stronger waste-burning prevention strategies.

(With inputs from agencies.)