Noida : CONRWA has approached the National Green Tribunal (NGT), seeking an investigation into alleged additional air pollution caused by traffic congestion at toll plazas on Delhi’s border routes. In a representation dated September 30, 2026, the organisation called for accountability from the Delhi government and the authorities concerned over toll collection, environmental damage and the utilisation of green toll revenue.
The letter, addressed to the NGT chairperson, highlights concerns over vehicles remaining stuck in long queues at toll plazas and the resulting additional fuel consumption and emissions. The organisation has questioned the effectiveness of a system that collects charges in the name of pollution control while potentially contributing to traffic congestion and deteriorating air quality.
CONRWA Seeks Scientific Assessment of Toll-Related Pollution
CONRWA has requested an independent and scientific investigation into traffic congestion at major toll plazas and entry routes to Delhi.
The proposed assessment should examine vehicle numbers, waiting times, additional fuel consumption and emissions of particulate matter, including PM2.5 and PM10, along with other pollutants.
The organisation has urged the tribunal to fix responsibility if the investigation establishes that the existing toll collection system or its operation is causing avoidable congestion and additional pollution. It has also sought environmental compensation, penalties and binding directions to prevent a recurrence of the problem.
Seeks Five-Year Account of Green Toll Revenue
The representation has called on the Delhi government and the relevant authorities to provide year-wise details of green toll and other related environmental charges collected from commercial vehicles over the past five financial years.
CONRWA has sought details of the total amount collected, the funds in which the money was deposited and the expenditure incurred under different heads. It has also asked the authorities to disclose the measurable environmental benefits achieved through the expenditure.
The organisation has argued that collecting money in the name of pollution control is not sufficient without transparency and evidence of its actual impact. It has sought an independent financial audit if the utilisation of the funds is found to be inadequately documented or inconsistent with their intended purpose.
Calls for Discontinuation of MCD Toll Collection
CONRWA has questioned the continuation of MCD toll collection at Delhi’s entry points, arguing that the system contributes to traffic congestion and additional emissions.
The organisation has called for the immediate discontinuation of the toll collection arrangement. It has also raised concerns about the impact of congestion on commuters and residents across Delhi-NCR, including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Rajasthan.
According to the representation, the environmental consequences of traffic congestion at Delhi’s borders extend beyond the national capital and require accountability from the authorities responsible for toll operations and traffic management.
Seeks Action Against Officials if Violations Are Established
The organisation has maintained that the issue goes beyond revenue collection and traffic management, involving environmental protection, public funds and the health of residents across the National Capital Region.
CONRWA has urged the NGT to direct the Delhi government and the concerned authorities to explain their responsibilities and take corrective measures wherever violations or administrative lapses are established.
The letter also seeks time-bound reporting on the action taken to address the concerns raised in the representation.
The representation has been signed by Dr P.S. Jain, advocate and president of CONRWA, and Anil Sharma, secretary general of the organisation. Copies have also been marked to the Delhi chief minister and the Union minister for environment, forest and climate change for their consideration and necessary action.
The NGT’s response to the representation and any subsequent directions were not specified in the letter provided.
