Efforts to Control Road Dust in India
Efforts to manage road dust have been prioritized under India's National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), aiming for a 40% reduction in PM₁₀ by 2025-2026. Studies indicate that road dust constitutes a significant portion of PM10 (20-52%) and PM2.5 (8-25%) pollutants.
Regional Silt Load Variations
- Research shows silt loads on streets vary widely across different states.
- Average silt load in Delhi is 14.47 g/m², with north Indian cities generally dustier than those in the south.
Government Investments and Initiatives
- ₹19,711 crore allocated to 131 cities from 2019 to 2025 to improve air quality.
- 64% of the NCAP fund spent on road dust control by November 2023.
- CAQM set up 68 'Dust Control and Management Cells' to combat dust.
- CAQM's 2025 study highlighted 24% of assessed roads were in poor condition, suggesting the need for further improvements.
Regulatory and Operational Challenges
- Lack of specific national regulations for road dust control.
- Fragmented jurisdiction with multiple agencies involved in road maintenance.
- Insufficient mechanised road-sweeping machines in cities, e.g., Delhi needs 200 but has only 85.
Recommendations for Effective Dust Management
- Establish standard operating procedures for dust disposal to prevent resuspension.
- Develop guidelines for appropriate cleaning and maintenance machinery.
- Implement a GIS-based platform for real-time monitoring and complaint resolution.
- Adopt scientifically informed mitigation strategies including dust suppressants and proper disposal mechanisms.
Conclusion
To address road dust effectively, a holistic, science-based approach embedded in sustainable urban planning is necessary. Coordinated efforts can significantly enhance air quality and public health, making urban areas more resilient and livable.
