Twin Approach to counter Pollution; Road Construction and Mist Spray Systems

New Delhi, 30 December 2025 : Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has said that the Delhi Government is taking strong and effective action on multiple fronts simultaneously to control pollution in the national capital. She stated that as soon as the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is lifted, construction work on nearly 400 kilometres of roads across Delhi will commence.

The Chief Minister said that these roads will be constructed wall-to-wall, ensuring that dust generated from road edges is eliminated at the source. Along with road construction, the Delhi Government is continuously installing mist spray systems on the central verges of roads to neutralise dust particles and strengthen pollution control efforts.

Contribution of the Central Government to road construction

According to the Delhi Government, budgetary allocations for 300 kilometres of the proposed 400 kilometres of roads have already been released by the Central Government. The remaining 100 kilometres of roads will be constructed using the Delhi Government’s own resources. The construction of these roads will not only improve traffic flow but will also significantly reduce dust emissions from damaged and worn-out roads, which have been a major contributor to pollution in Delhi.

All preparations complete; work to begin immediately after GRAP is lifted

Chief Minister  Rekha Gupta informed that all tenders and related procedural formalities for road construction have already been completed. Once GRAP is lifted, the Public Works Department (PWD) will begin work at a war footing, with construction activities starting simultaneously in multiple parts of the city. She added that roads constructed five years ago or those that have deteriorated significantly will be taken up on priority. The Government aims to complete the construction work, with a strong possibility of its completion within the current financial year.

Mist spray systems effective in controlling dust pollution

Alongside road construction, the Delhi Government is expanding the deployment of mist spray systems to curb dust pollution. As per directions issued by the Environment Department, these systems are being installed on electric poles or other suitable structures located on road medians. The fine water droplets released through mist spray systems help suppress road dust, which is a major source of pollutants such as PM10 and PM2.5.

At present, around 340 mist spray systems are operational at hundreds of locations across the capital, and their coverage is being expanded in a phased manner. The Chief Minister stated that these systems are being installed on a priority basis in high-pollution areas and identified hotspots. Except during the monsoon season, the systems will remain operational throughout the year to ensure continuous dust control. She also noted that the system does not require any additional road construction or infrastructure, making it a practical and effective solution.

Long-term measures essential for sustainable pollution control

Chief Minister  Rekha Gupta emphasised that addressing pollution in Delhi cannot be limited to seasonal or short-term measures. Along with immediate interventions, long-term and structural solutions are essential. She said that better roads, regular maintenance, and the use of modern dust-control technologies together can lead to a sustained improvement in Delhi’s air quality.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the Delhi Government remains committed to balancing development with environmental protection and ensuring a clean, safe, and healthier living environment for the citizens of the capital.