The Government of Uttar Pradesh has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI) and the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) New Delhi to implement a comprehensive urban road paving and greening framework across the National Capital Region (NCR).
The initiative aims to tackle road dust pollution while improving the quality, sustainability, and maintenance of urban road infrastructure. The agreement was signed in New Delhi with participation from the Uttar Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD), CSIR-CRRI, SPA New Delhi, and officials from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
The project will follow the CAQM’s standard framework for paving and greening urban roads, which combines road engineering practices with environmental management strategies to reduce particulate matter emissions from road networks. Officials say the initiative is expected to contribute significantly to cleaner air and better urban living conditions across NCR districts in Uttar Pradesh.
Under the partnership, CSIR-CRRI and SPA New Delhi will oversee the implementation of several technical measures, including improved urban road design standards, roadside greening and landscaping, advanced road asset management systems, and the adoption of innovative construction technologies. These efforts are intended to improve road durability, enhance mobility, and support long-term environmental sustainability.
CSIR-CRRI Director Dr. Ch Ravi Shekhar highlighted the importance of science-based solutions and institutional collaboration in addressing urban air pollution challenges. The project is expected to create a structured approach to road maintenance while integrating green infrastructure into urban development planning.
Uttar Pradesh officials believe the initiative can serve as a model for other NCR states seeking to balance infrastructure development with environmental protection. By combining modern road engineering with sustainable urban planning, the project aims to reduce dust emissions, improve public health, and strengthen the resilience of urban transport networks.
The partnership reflects India’s growing focus on integrating environmental sustainability into infrastructure projects and demonstrates how research institutions and government agencies can work together to address urban challenges through innovative and practical solutions.
