Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation has prepared a ₹900 crore proposal under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) to strengthen pollution-control measures during 2026-27. The plan focuses on reducing road dust, improving electric mobility infrastructure and lowering emissions in one of the National Capital Region’s most pollution-affected cities.
A significant share of the proposed investment is expected to support roadside improvements, including the installation of interlocking tiles across parts of Ghaziabad’s extensive road network. Urban planners consider road dust management a critical challenge for fast-growing cities, where construction activity, traffic movement and unpaved surfaces continue to contribute to particulate pollution. The move comes as Ghaziabad has recorded some improvement in overall air quality indicators but remains among India’s highly polluted urban centres. The city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) reportedly declined from 227 in 2021 to 176 in 2025. Authorities aim to further reduce pollution levels through targeted infrastructure upgrades and cleaner transport solutions. As part of the broader National Clean Air Programme, the civic body is also expanding electric vehicle support systems. The corporation plans to develop 100 electric vehicle charging points at 20 locations across the city. Work has started at several sites, while additional locations are being assessed to ensure wider accessibility before the winter pollution season.
Transport remains a major concern for Ghaziabad, which has witnessed rapid growth in vehicle ownership alongside urban expansion. Government transport data indicates the city has more than 70,000 registered electric vehicles, including e-rickshaws, electric two-wheelers, electric carts and buses. However, experts note that charging availability and last-mile connectivity will determine how effectively electric mobility can reduce urban emissions. The city’s pollution challenge reflects wider concerns across the NCR region. Ghaziabad continues to experience high levels of particulate matter, with annual PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations remaining above national air quality limits. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants affects public health, increases pressure on urban infrastructure and impacts the quality of life for residents.
Under the National Clean Air Programme, cities identified as non-attainment areas receive support to improve air quality through sector-specific interventions. Urban experts argue that long-term improvements will require coordinated action across transport, construction, waste management and land-use planning rather than isolated pollution-control projects. For Ghaziabad, the upcoming phase will test whether investments in cleaner mobility and dust reduction can translate into measurable environmental gains. The city’s ability to combine infrastructure growth with climate-sensitive planning will be crucial as population and economic activity continue to expand.
