In a major step towards modernising Delhi’s road infrastructure, the Delhi Government on Monday signed a tripartite Memorandum of Agreement with CSIR-Central Road Research Institute and the School of Planning and Architecture to develop a scientific, technology-driven framework for road construction, maintenance and dust pollution control across the Capital.
The agreement, signed under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, will introduce a standard framework for paving and greening of urban roads and pave the way for Delhi’s first comprehensive Road Asset Management System, enabling digital monitoring and data-driven management of road infrastructure.
“We are building an urban road ecosystem, not just roads,” the Chief Minister said. She said the government aimed to create environmentally sustainable, safe and future-ready urban corridors capable of addressing challenges posed by rapid urbanisation, rising traffic load, air pollution and waterlogging.
A key feature of the initiative is the Road Asset Management System, which will digitally assess road conditions, traffic load, structural strength, maintenance needs and service life. The system is expected to facilitate timely repairs, prioritised maintenance and more efficient use of public resources while improving the durability and quality of roads.
The agreement also focuses on transforming Delhi into a model for dust-free roads through scientific green belts, promotion of local plant species, sustainable landscaping and strengthened rainwater harvesting and stormwater drainage systems. Road slopes and drainage networks will also be redesigned to tackle recurring waterlogging during the monsoon.
PWD Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh said the technology-driven system would guide road construction and maintenance in Delhi. He said the support of institutions such as CSIR-CRRI and SPA would help create a data-driven framework for road development, greening, road safety and dust control.
Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the government was fully committed to building a dust-free and greener Delhi. He said large-scale plantation drives, mechanised road sweeping and scientific cleaning operations were already being undertaken to reduce dust pollution and improve environmental conditions across the city.
