Mixed Results in India's Battle Against Air Pollution

• 11 Jan 2024

Of the 49 cities analyzed over five years, 27 witnessed a decline in the most hazardous particulate matter, PM 2.5. However, only four cities achieved or surpassed the targeted reduction, according to a recent study by Respirer Living Sciences and Climate Trends.

Key Points

• NCAP's Ambitious Targets: The NCAP, with a budget of ₹9,631 crores, aspires to slash average particulate matter concentrations by 40% by 2026 (compared to 2017) in 131 cities. Initially set for 2024, the pollution reduction goal was later extended to 2026.
• Marginal Declines and Surges: Despite the three-year deadline, major cities like Delhi report a mere 5.9% decrease in average annual PM 2.5 levels.
• Navi Mumbai experienced a 46% rise, Mumbai a 38.1% increase, and Ujjain a 46% rise. Varanasi, Jodhpur, and Agra stand out with significant PM 2.5 reductions.
• Uttar Pradesh's Success: Cities in Uttar Pradesh, including Jodhpur, Kanpur, Meerut, and Lucknow, surpassed the 40% reduction target for PM 2.5 levels. However, beyond Varanasi and Talcher, other cities failed to meet the PM 10 reduction target.
• Geographical Influence: The study notes the impact of geographical locations, diverse emission sources, and meteorological factors on pollution variations.
• The Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP) remains highly susceptible to heightened particulate matter concentrations, hosting 18 of the top 20 cities with the highest PM 2.5 levels.
• Monitoring Challenges: The availability and spread of continuous ambient air quality monitors influence annual pollutant concentrations.
• While cities like Mumbai and Delhi boast several monitoring stations, most Indian cities have fewer than five, hindering comprehensive pollution assessment.
• Call for Continued Efforts: The study emphasizes the need for sustained efforts to combat air pollution, acknowledging the positive strides made by the NCAP.
• As the program evolves, strengthened monitoring and mitigation measures become crucial to achieving ambitious environmental targets.