A recent scientific study has revealed that road dust re-suspension is a major and often overlooked contributor to air pollution across key stretches of New Delhi. The findings highlight a serious environmental concern along an 82.5-kilometre corridor stretching from Mayapuri to Punjabi Bagh via major highways including NH-44 and NH-9.
The study, conducted by CSIR-NEERI and the Central Road Research Institute for the Commission for Air Quality Management, found that poor road conditions are significantly worsening dust pollution. Only 34 percent of the examined road stretch was classified as being in good condition, while the remaining 66 percent fell into moderate to poor categories. These degraded surfaces allow dust to accumulate easily and become airborne with passing traffic.
The report estimated that vehicle movement along this corridor generates approximately 33.8 tonnes of PM10 and 8.2 tonnes of PM2.5 emissions per day. These particulate matter pollutants are particularly dangerous because of their ability to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing serious health issues.
The survey covered several busy locations including Mayapuri, Punjabi Bagh, Azadpur, Mukarba Chowk, Bawana, Ghevra, Tikri Border, Mundka, and Peeragarhi. Researchers found that dust accumulation was highest along road edges and central dividers, while middle lanes showed comparatively lower levels. However, even these lower levels contribute significantly when traffic volume is high.
One of the most alarming findings came from the Ghevra to Punjabi Bagh West Road stretch on NH-9. This section recorded extremely high emission levels, with PM10 at 1,450.5 kilograms per day per kilometre and PM2.5 at 349.5 kilograms per day per kilometre. Another critical stretch, from Bawana to Ghevra Metro, also showed elevated pollution levels.
The study further revealed that nearly half of the collected dust particles were smaller than 178 micrometres. These fine particles are easily lifted into the air by moving vehicles, making them a constant source of pollution. Even more concerning, a portion of these particles measured below 76 micrometres and even 10 micrometres, which are small enough to remain suspended in the air for long periods and pose severe health risks.
Researchers linked the high levels of dust pollution to poor road maintenance, damaged surfaces, and lack of proper dust management practices. Areas such as Tikri Border and Mundka were found to have particularly high concentrations of fine dust particles, indicating urgent need for intervention.
Based on these findings, the study recommended several measures to reduce dust re-suspension. These include paving road shoulders, improving regular maintenance, deploying mechanical sweeping systems, using dust suppressants, and increasing plantation along roadsides and medians. Vegetation can play a crucial role in trapping dust and improving overall air quality.
Officials stated that this report has already helped shape a standardized framework introduced by the Commission for Air Quality Management to control dust pollution in Delhi-NCR.
The findings underline a critical reality that while vehicular emissions often receive the most attention, road dust is an equally dangerous and persistent contributor to air pollution. Addressing this hidden source is essential for improving air quality and protecting public health in one of the world’s most polluted urban regions.