AIR POLLUTION IN INDIA: ENVIRONMENT
NEWS: Why India needs to clean its air
WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?
India is facing a severe air pollution crisis, with 13 of the world’s 20 most polluted cities and Delhi being the most polluted capital globally. The crisis is driven by vehicular and industrial emissions, biomass burning, and poor waste management, despite several government initiatives like NCAP and BS-VI standards.
1. Current Status of Air Pollution in India
• According to the World Air Quality Report 2024, India ranks as the fifth most polluted country globally, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 50.6 µg/m³, which is 10 times higher than the World Health Organization's (WHO) annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.
• Thirteen of the world's top 20 most polluted cities are in India, with Byrnihat (located on the Assam-Meghalaya border) recording the highest PM2.5 concentration at 128.2 µg/m³.
• Delhi remains the most polluted capital city globally, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 91.6 µg/m³.
2. Understanding Air Pollution
• Air pollution occurs when harmful substances, including particles, gases, or other pollutants, are introduced into the atmosphere, leading to degraded air quality.
• Common air pollutants include:
1. Particulate Matter (PM): Tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.
2. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂): A gas that contributes to smog and acid rain, primarily produced from vehicle emissions and industrial activities.
3. Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂): Emitted mainly from fossil fuel combustion at power plants and other industrial facilities.
4. Ozone (O₃): A reactive gas that, at ground level, is a significant component of smog.
5. Carbon Monoxide (CO): A colorless, odorless gas resulting from incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels.
6. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Organic chemicals that have high vapor pressure at room temperature, contributing to ozone formation.
7. Lead: A toxic metal that can be emitted into the air from industrial processes and leaded gasoline.
3. Sources of Air Pollution in India
• Vehicular Emissions:
• The high number of vehicles, especially older and less efficient ones, contributes significantly to air pollution.
• Dependence on diesel and petrol fuels results in the release of substantial amounts of NO₂ and PM.
• Industrial Emissions:
• Industries, particularly coal-based power plants, release large quantities of SO₂, NO₂, and PM.
• Lack of stringent enforcement of emission norms exacerbates the problem.
• Burning of Biomass:
• In rural areas, the burning of crop residues and the use of solid fuels like wood and cow dung for cooking are prevalent, leading to significant indoor and outdoor air pollution.
• Construction Dust:
• Rapid urbanization has led to extensive construction activities, generating large amounts of dust and increasing PM levels.
• Waste Burning:
• Open burning of garbage and waste, common in urban and semi-urban areas, releases harmful pollutants, including dioxins and furans.
• Population Density:
• Overcrowded cities with high vehicular traffic and industrial activities lead to elevated pollution levels.
• Climate and Geography:
• Seasonal weather patterns, especially during winters, cause temperature inversions that trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to smog formation.
• Deforestation:
• Loss of green cover reduces the natural filtration of air, contributing to higher pollution levels.
4. Concerns Arising from Air Pollution
• Health-Related Issues:
• Increased incidence of respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis.
• Higher risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks and strokes.
• Reduced lung function and development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Premature mortality due to prolonged exposure to high pollution levels.
• Environmental Impact:
• Damage to ecosystems and loss of biodiversity.
• Pollution of water bodies through deposition of airborne pollutants.
• Contribution to climate change through the release of greenhouse gases.
• Damage to crops and reduced agricultural yields due to pollutant deposition.
• Economic Impact:
• Increased healthcare costs due to a rise in pollution-related illnesses.
• Loss of productivity as a result of health issues among the workforce.
• Negative impact on tourism due to poor air quality.
5. Government Initiatives
1. National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
• Launched in 2019 to cut PM pollution by 20–30% by 2024–25.
• Focuses on monitoring, emission control, and public participation.
2. Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) Norms (2020):
• Upgraded vehicle emission standards to reduce vehicular pollution.
• Mandates cleaner fuels and advanced engines.
3. Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY):
• Provides LPG to poor households to reduce smoke from solid fuels.
4. FAME Scheme (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles):
• Encourages electric vehicle use through subsidies and awareness.
5. GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment):
• Promotes eco-friendly and energy-efficient building practices.
6. Swachh Bharat Mission & Waste Management Programs:
• Aims to end open waste burning and promote clean disposal systems.
7. Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM):
• Established for NCR to coordinate pollution control across states.
8. Afforestation Programs:
• Under Green India Mission, aims to increase forest cover to absorb pollutants.
6. Way Forward
• Target: India aims to cut PM2.5 levels by 40% by 2026.
• Data Needs: Detailed city-wise data (vehicles, fuel use) is essential for planning.
• Local Focus: Solutions must address rural pollution sources like biomass burning.
• Avoid “Western Trap”: Don’t over-rely on high-tech urban tools—focus on basic, scalable, ground-level interventions.
• Implementation Priority: Separate funds for quick-action and long-term research.
• Learn from Global Examples: Tailor global best practices (China, Brazil, London) to Indian conditions—focus on cooperative federalism and informal economies.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/why-india-needs-to-clean-its-air/article69400021.ece#:~:text=It's%20a%20persistent%2C%20silent%20pandemic,regularly%20top%20global%20pollution%20rankings.