PRELIMS BITS
From 2019 to 2024, Indian cities made progress in reducing PM2.5 pollution, with an average 27% reduction. National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) cities saw a 24% drop, with Varanasi leading the way with a 76% reduction. Despite these advances, cities like Delhi, Gurugram, and Faridabad continue to struggle with severe air quality issues.
Key Findings:
- Top Performers: Varanasi (-76%), Moradabad (-58%), Kalaburagi (-57.2%), Meerut (-57.1%), Katni (-56.3%).
- Cities with Severe Pollution: Delhi (107 µg/m³), Gurugram (96.7 µg/m³), Faridabad (87.1 µg/m³), Byrnihat (127.3 µg/m³).
National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
- Launched in 2019 with the goal to reduce particulate pollution by 20-30% by 2024.
- Revised target: 40% reduction by 2026.
- Challenges: Insufficient air quality monitoring, industrial and vehicular emissions, seasonal factors like stubble burning.
Future Directions:
- Continued effort is required to achieve NCAP targets.
- Focus on stricter regulations, cleaner technologies, and improved monitoring.
- Public awareness and enhanced compliance with regulations are crucial for sustained progress.