Clean the air like we actually mean it
India finally unveiled a national plan to tackle air pollution last week. The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) sets a timebound target — a five-year action plan to be implemented from this year, and which can be extended on the basis of reviewing the outcomes — of reducing the concentration of particulate matter by 20-30% from 2017 levels by 2024 in 102 cities and towns with the highest levels of pollution. To achieve its target, the environment ministry will work with state governments and local authorities, augmenting monitoring and data collection, strengthening institutions and increasing public awareness.Air pollution is a serious public health issue that adversely affects productivity. The NCAP is a signal of how seriously GoI views the problem of rising levels of air pollution. Acknowledging that improving air quality must be collaborative, multiscaled and cross-sectoral. Tackling air pollution requires an airshed approach, hence the focus on cities. The plan is based on time-bound programmes, with set systems for review and constant assessments. Improving institutional capacity is essential for not just improving air quality but also preventing future deterioration. One key area of action that the government must focus on is augmenting the capacity of the pollution control boards to enforce the laws and ensure compliance. Without proper enforcement, there will be much hot air.
The plan’s focus is overwhelmingly on the abatement of particulate matter pollution. It must evolve to include long-term and systemic measures to reduce the generation of pollutants at source. This requires changes in the way that goods and services are produced and consumed. While not perfect, the NCAP is a long overdue first and welcome step towards improving air quality. Now the focus must be on proper implementation.
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