Srinagar, June 1: Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Faz Lul Haseeb, on Monday conducted an extensive inspection of sites along the NH-44 Western Highway Corridor to review the progress of works being executed under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aimed at reducing air pollution and improving the Air Quality Index (AQI) across one of the city’s busiest traffic corridors.
The inspection was undertaken to assess the implementation and maintenance of ongoing and completed NCAP interventions designed to curb dust pollution, enhance environmental sustainability and bring air quality levels within prescribed standards.
During the visit, the Commissioner reviewed works executed under NCAP and assessed the effectiveness of dust suppression and pollution mitigation measures being implemented along the highway corridor.
Emphasising the importance of timely completion of projects, he directed the concerned agencies to ensure sustained maintenance of completed works to secure long-term environmental benefits.
Stressing the need for coordinated action, Faz Lul Haseeb instructed all stakeholder departments to work in close collaboration to reduce vehicular dust emissions, improve roadside aesthetics and strengthen efforts to achieve the objectives of the National Clean Air Programme.
He also directed the concerned officers to expedite all pending works and ensure strict adherence to prescribed air quality standards.
The Commissioner held detailed discussions with officers regarding future strategies for strengthening air quality management initiatives along NH-44 and underscored the importance of increasing urban green cover.
He directed the concerned departments to explore large-scale plantation drives and landscape enhancement measures along the corridor, keeping in view the holistic and sustainable development of Srinagar.
Reaffirming SMC’s commitment towards environmental protection and sustainable urban development, the Commissioner said focused efforts under NCAP would continue to be strengthened to ensure cleaner air, healthier surroundings and an improved quality of life for the residents of Srinagar.
The inspection was attended by the Joint Commissioner (Works), SMC, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), SMC, and Executive Engineer, PWD (R&B), Project Division-I Srinagar, who briefed the Commissioner on the status of various interventions being undertaken under the programme.
