The CSIR‑CRRI in New Delhi has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Government of Haryana to roll out the Standard Framework for Paving and Greening of Urban Roads in the state. The project, guided by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), aims to curb road‑dust pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) and create sustainable urban road infrastructure.
Key Developments
- MoA signed between CSIR‑CRRI, the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), and the Haryana government.
- Implementation of the CAQM‑approved framework to pave and green urban roads, reducing dust generation.
- Introduction of a Road Asset Management System (RAMS) for better road maintenance.
- Adoption of innovative construction technologies and greening measures within the road right‑of‑way.
- Collaboration among research institutions, state agencies and urban local bodies for coordinated execution.
Important Facts
The agreement was signed in the presence of senior officials from CAQM, the Haryana government, CSIR‑CRRI and SPA. The framework was originally prepared by CSIR‑CRRI and later endorsed by CAQM as a national guideline for dust mitigation. Four work packages will be executed: (i) development of space standards and road cross‑sections, (ii) greening of road right‑of‑way, (iii) improvement of maintenance practices through RAMS, and (iv) deployment of innovative construction technologies.
Road dust has been identified as a major contributor to particulate matter (PM) pollution in the NCR, adversely affecting air quality and public health. By paving unpaved stretches and planting vegetation, the project seeks to lower PM levels and improve the livability of urban areas.
UPSC Relevance
Understanding this initiative helps aspirants link environmental governance with infrastructure development. It illustrates how central research institutes (CSIR‑CRRI) collaborate with state governments and statutory bodies (CAQM) to address urban pollution—a recurring theme in GS‑III (Environment) and GS‑II (Polity) papers.
Way Forward
Successful implementation will require continuous monitoring, capacity building of local authorities, and scaling of best‑practice models to other states. The Haryana government has pledged support, while CSIR‑CRRI and SPA will provide technical expertise. Periodic reviews by CAQM will ensure that dust‑mitigation targets are met and that the framework can be refined for broader application across the NCR and beyond.