New Delhi: As part of its continuous monitoring, review and enforcement actions under the statutory framework of the existing Graded Response Action Plan, the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas conducted an inspection drive in Noida on January 5, 2026. The inspection was carried out to assess the status of road-cleaning, mechanical sweeping operations and the overall upkeep of road stretches maintained by the Noida Authority. The exercise was undertaken under ‘Operation Clean Air’ with the objective of evaluating the on-ground implementation of dust mitigation measures and identifying issues related to visible road dust, accumulation of municipal solid waste, construction and demolition waste, and instances of open burning.
The inspection drive covered road stretches falling under the jurisdiction of the Noida Authority and was aimed at ensuring strict compliance with statutory directions and GRAP measures. To conduct the inspection, a total of ten teams were deployed, comprising officers from the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board and members of the CAQM flying squad. These teams jointly inspected 142 road stretches across Noida. During the inspections, geo-tagged and time-stamped photographic evidence was collected from all locations. The evidence was subsequently compiled and submitted to the Commission as part of a consolidated inspection report, ensuring transparency, accountability and accuracy in the assessment process.
The findings of the inspection indicate an overall encouraging scenario with regard to dust mitigation and road maintenance efforts. Out of the 142 road stretches inspected, only four stretches were found to be exhibiting high levels of visible dust. Twenty-four stretches showed moderate dust levels, while 66 stretches recorded low dust intensity. Significantly, 48 road stretches were found to have no visible dust at all, reflecting effective implementation of road-cleaning, mechanical sweeping and dust suppression measures across a large number of locations maintained by the Noida Authority.
However, the inspection also highlighted certain areas requiring focused and targeted attention. The limited number of stretches that exhibited high visible dust were, in some cases, found to be associated with the accumulation of municipal solid waste and construction and demolition waste. Such issues were particularly observed at vulnerable locations, including areas under flyovers, along metro corridors and on specific arterial road segments. These observations underline the importance of identifying and addressing dust and waste hotspots to prevent the re-accumulation of pollutants and to maintain sustained improvements in road conditions.
The Commission emphasized that while the overall findings are positive, sustained and intensified efforts are necessary, especially at vulnerable and high-risk locations. CAQM stressed the need for regular and effective mechanical sweeping, prompt lifting of collected dust and waste, and their scientific disposal. The Commission also highlighted the importance of adequate and effective water sprinkling on road surfaces to suppress dust, particularly during dry weather conditions. Strict measures to prevent illegal dumping of waste and open burning were also underscored, as these activities significantly contribute to localized air pollution and dust generation.
CAQM reiterated that inspection and enforcement drives under ‘Operation Clean Air’ will continue to be undertaken regularly across the National Capital Region. These drives are aimed at ensuring strict compliance with statutory directions issued by the Commission and the effective implementation of GRAP measures, particularly those related to dust mitigation and the prevention of open burning. The Commission noted that consistent enforcement and regular monitoring are essential to ensure that corrective actions taken on the ground lead to long-term improvements in air quality and road maintenance.
The Commission for Air Quality Management reaffirmed its commitment to working on a war footing with all concerned agencies across the NCR to address air pollution challenges in a coordinated and sustained manner. It emphasized that maintaining clean, green, dust-free and well-maintained road stretches is a shared responsibility and a critical component of the overall strategy to improve air quality in the region.
Through continuous monitoring, targeted corrective measures and coordinated enforcement actions, CAQM aims to ensure that the gains achieved through such inspection drives are sustained and further strengthened. The Commission stated that these efforts are essential not only for controlling dust pollution but also for improving the overall quality of life of residents across Noida and the wider National Capital Region.
