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Delhi Roads Get Green Makeover for Cleaner Air
27 May
Summary
- Roads to be free of dust, improving air quality.
- Projects aim to integrate public spaces and amenities.
- New designs feature sustainable drainage and green verges.
Delhi's highly trafficked road corridors are slated for a significant transformation, aiming to drastically reduce road dust and improve air quality. This initiative, coordinated between the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) and local road agencies, was recently emphasized in a meeting chaired by LG Sandhu. The redevelopment focuses on creating dust-free environments, a key recommendation from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
Five specific corridors have been identified for this ambitious project: Minto Road-ITO-Karkardooma; Minto Road-Aruna Asaf Ali Marg-Jawaharlal Nehru Marg-Delhi Gate; Netaji Subhash Marg-Shanti Van-Mahatma Gandhi Marg-ITO-IT Estate Metro Station; Dhaula Kuan-Jail Road/Cariappa Marg-Tilak Nagar Crossing; and Uttam Nagar-Tilak Nagar-Rajouri Garden along Najafgarh Road.
The redevelopment plans extend beyond dust control, incorporating features to make these roads more accessible and people-friendly. This includes integrating public spaces and amenities to foster a sense of ownership among citizens. Plans also feature advanced stormwater drainage systems to prevent flooding and silt buildup during monsoons, alongside scientific green central verges with piped irrigation to reduce reliance on water tankers.
Further enhancements will include integrated pedestrian pathways with cycle tracks, public utility spaces, resting shelters, short-term parking, and improved street lighting. To support local economies, movable vending zones and informal craft bazaars are proposed, alongside enhanced security surveillance systems focused on women and children's safety. SPA is also tasked with developing pavement designs using porous materials for better water seepage and durability.
