Home / Environment / CAQM Slams DDA Over Road Dust and Waste Neglect
CAQM Slams DDA Over Road Dust and Waste Neglect
15 Dec
Summary
- CAQM inspection revealed high dust, waste accumulation, and burning on DDA roads.
- 136 DDA road stretches were assessed, with 15 showing high visible dust levels.
- DDA urged to improve sweeping, water sprinkling, and waste disposal for cleaner air.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has sharply rebuked the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) following inspections that revealed recurring negligence in road maintenance across the capital. The "Operation Clean Air" drive uncovered substantial issues with road dust, waste accumulation, and open burning on DDA-managed stretches, highlighting a significant threat to air quality.
During recent assessments, inspection teams evaluated 136 DDA road segments, with a concerning number exhibiting high or moderate levels of visible dust. Furthermore, the inspections flagged widespread problems including municipal and construction waste accumulation on numerous road stretches, alongside evidence of waste burning in several locations. The CAQM emphasized the need for immediate and consistent dust mitigation efforts.
In response to these findings, the CAQM has mandated the DDA to bolster its on-ground interventions. This includes implementing regular mechanical sweeping, ensuring timely disposal of collected dust, maintaining road shoulders, and increasing the deployment of water sprinkling and dust suppression systems. Focused efforts to prevent open waste burning along all DDA roads are also required to achieve sustained dust reduction and improve ambient air quality.
