The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has begun installing emission-control devices on 25 diesel generator sets along an 8.7-km stretch of Dwarka Expressway to reduce pollution from highway operations.
The devices, known as Retrofit Emission Control Devices (RECDs), are being installed on the stretch between Basai and the cloverleaf interchange connecting Dwarka Expressway with the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway near Kherki Dhaula.
The initiative comes as the National Capital Region (NCR) prepares for the winter pollution season, when restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) may tighten emission-control requirements.
NHAI installs RECDs on 25 diesel generator sets
The installation programme covers diesel generator sets used for road lighting and other highway operations. While these generators support essential infrastructure functions, their emissions can contribute to local air pollution.
The RECDs are intended to control emissions from the equipment without disrupting essential operations. NHAI’s installation process includes fitting, testing and commissioning the devices, along with maintenance support.
The authority has also mandated GPS-tagged photographs documenting installations at each generator set or location. These records will support verification and compliance monitoring.
Winter pollution concerns drive emission-control measures
The move follows directions from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which has called for the regulation of diesel generator sets across NCR, particularly during winter.
Air quality typically becomes a major concern in the region during the colder months. Authorities may introduce stricter measures under GRAP depending on pollution levels and the prevailing stage of restrictions.
Diesel generator sets used for essential infrastructure can pose a regulatory challenge because operators must balance operational requirements with emission-control obligations.
By installing RECDs, NHAI is seeking to address emissions from equipment required to keep the highway operational.
Dwarka Expressway forms a key Delhi-Gurgaon corridor
The 8.7-km stretch covered by the initiative runs from Basai to the cloverleaf interchange near Kherki Dhaula, linking Dwarka Expressway with the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway.
The installation programme forms part of NHAI’s broader efforts to incorporate environmental safeguards into the construction and operation of national highways in NCR.
The use of RECDs, supported by testing, maintenance and GPS-tagged documentation, is intended to provide a verifiable approach to managing emissions from highway equipment.
The effectiveness of the initiative will depend on the proper functioning and maintenance of the devices, alongside continued compliance with applicable emission-control requirements.
