Clean Air Cities in India: A Vision for Sustainable Living in 2024.
Vernica Singh
November 28, 2024. 4 minute Read
India, home to over 1.4 billion people, is facing a severe air pollution crisis. From bustling metropolises to small towns, the air we breathe is becoming increasingly toxic, with devastating consequences for our health, environment, and economy. Yet, amid this pressing challenge, there is hope. Some cities are working hard to pave the way for a cleaner and greener future.
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In this article, we will explore the causes and effects of air pollution in India, the measures being taken to combat it, and the inspiring stories of cities leading the charge toward sustainable living.
This year, Madurai, Chikkaballapur, and Ooty were the top three cities with clean air. But the big Indian cities where Indians dream, live, and prosper barely rank on the list. So, should we suffer or rebuild our cities with clean and more prosperous energy?
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Rank | City | State | AQI Value | AQI Category | Prominent Pollutant |
1 | Madurai | 22 | Good | PM10 | |
2 | Chikkaballapur | 25 | Good | PM10 | |
3 | Ooty | Tamil Nadu | 25 | Good | CO |
4 | Madikeri | Karnataka | 28 | Good | PM10 |
5 | Gadag | Karnataka | 28 | Good | CO |
6 | Kalaburagi | Karnataka | 28 | Good | CO, PM10 |
6 | Palkalaiperur | Tamil Nadu | 29 | Good | PM10 |
7 | Thanjavur | Tamil Nadu | 29 | Good | PM10 |
8 | Nagaon | Assam | 30 | Good | PM10 |
9 | Belgaum | Karnataka | 30 | Good | CO |
10 | Udipi | Karnataka | 30 | Good | CO |
Source: Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
The Crisis Of Air Pollution In India
1. Vehicular Emissions
The increasing number of vehicles on Indian roads is a major culprit. Fossil fuel-powered cars, bikes, and buses release harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). In cities with dense traffic, these emissions accumulate, making the air difficult to breathe.
Efforts such as expanding metro systems, introducing electric buses, and encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in cities like Delhi offer hope. However, the widespread reliance on private vehicles continues to pose challenges.
2. Industrial Activities
Factories and industries, especially those dependent on coal, emit large amounts of sulfur dioxide (SO2), fine particulate matter, and greenhouse gases. Industrial hubs in cities like Kanpur and Mumbai are particularly affected.
While stricter emission norms and cleaner technologies are being promoted, consistent enforcement is still a challenge, especially in smaller industrial zones.
3. Domestic Pollution
In many rural and semi-urban areas, households rely on traditional fuels like wood, coal, and dung cakes for cooking. This practice not only creates indoor air pollution but also contributes to outdoor smog.
Government programs like the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) have provided subsidized LPG connections to millions of households, offering cleaner cooking alternatives. Yet, financial constraints and cultural habits hinder broader adoption.
4. Construction Dust
The rapid pace of urban development has led to a rise in construction activities, which generate large amounts of dust and debris. Poorly managed waste and unpaved roads further worsen air quality in cities like Bengaluru and Chennai.
To address this, stricter regulations, sustainable construction practices, and improved waste management are essential.
5. Stubble Burning
Every winter, the practice of stubble burning by farmers in northern India contributes heavily to air pollution. The smoke from these fires drifts across states, severely affecting cities like Delhi.
While subsidies for residue management equipment and financial incentives are being provided, logistical and economic barriers continue to hinder large-scale adoption.
The Health Toll of Air Pollution
Air pollution in India has become a silent health emergency. Its impact goes far beyond occasional coughing or sneezing; it takes a toll on almost every organ in the human body. Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing conditions are especially vulnerable.
- Respiratory Diseases:Chronic bronchitis, asthma, and reduced lung function are common outcomes of prolonged exposure to polluted air. Even various reports have suggested that air pollution leads to constrained growth of organs and impaired brain development
- Heart Problems:Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) enters the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.
- Neurological Effects:Research shows that air pollution can impair cognitive development in children and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s in older adults.
- Premature Deaths: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is responsible for millions of premature deaths annually in India.
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Clean Air Cities:
Leading the Way!
Despite the grim reality, some cities in India are setting an example for others to follow. Through innovative policies and community-driven initiatives, these cities are showing that change is possible.
- Mysuru: Known for its lush greenery and cleanliness, Mysuru’s focus on waste management, green spaces, and well-planned infrastructure has kept pollution levels in check.
- Chandigarh: This well-planned city boasts wide roads, abundant green belts, and strict vehicle emission norms. Dedicated cycling tracks and pedestrian-friendly areas further enhance its air quality.
- Shillong: Nestled in the hills of Meghalaya, Shillong benefits from low industrial activity. Efforts to control vehicular emissions ensure the city retains its clean air.
- Pune: By promoting electric vehicles, expanding public transport, and developing urban forests, Pune is working toward a sustainable future.
- Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala’s capital maintains low pollution levels due to minimal industrial activity and its extensive tree cover. Anti-waste-burning campaigns and renewable energy initiatives further boost its air quality.
National Initiatives for Cleaner Air
The Indian government has launched several programs to tackle air pollution on a national scale:
- Use Public Transport: Opt for buses, trains, or carpools whenever possible.
- Plant Trees:Support tree-planting drives and work to protect existing green spaces.
- Avoid Waste Burning:Advocate for proper waste management and segregation in your community.
- Switch to Cleaner Energy:Use energy-efficient appliances and explore renewable energy options for your home.
What You Can Do For Cleaner Air?
Creating clean air cities isn’t just the responsibility of governments and industries. Every individual has a role to play in building a healthier future. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Use Public Transport: Opt for buses, trains, or carpools whenever possible.
- Plant Trees:Support tree-planting drives and work to protect existing green spaces.
- Avoid Waste Burning:Advocate for proper waste management and segregation in your community.
- Switch to Cleaner Energy:Use energy-efficient appliances and explore renewable energy options for your home.
Final Thoughts
A Breath of Fresh Air
Clean air is a basic human right, yet achieving it requires a collective effort. Cities like Mysuru and Pune remind us that sustainable living is possible when policies, innovation, and community action come together. While India’s battle with air pollution is far from over, every step—no matter how small—brings us closer to a future where clean air is a reality, not a luxury.
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Together, we can work to ensure that the next generation inherits cities filled with fresh air, vibrant greenery, and the promise of a healthier tomorrow.
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