97 cities are improving air quality, 55 have reduced PM10 levels by more than 20%: Ministry of Environment

The Ministry of Environment on Monday, November 25, informed Parliament about the marked decline in PM10 concentration levels in several Indian cities between 2017-18 and 2023-24, citing efforts under the National Clean Air Program (NCAP) and funding for the 15th Financial conference. Commission.

According to the ministry, Greater Mumbai recorded the most significant decline in PM10 levels, down 42% from 161 micrograms per cubic meter to 94 micrograms. It was followed by Ghaziabad, which cut emissions by 40%, bringing PM10 levels down from 285 micrograms to 172 micrograms. Noida recorded a 21% improvement, while Delhi, one of the world’s most polluted cities, recorded a 14% decline in levels, from 241 to 208 micrograms. However, Navi Mumbai reported an 11% increase in PM10 levels during the same period, rising from 88 to 98 micrograms.

The Role of the National Clean Air Program

The NCAP program, launched in January 2019, aims to reduce PM10 levels by up to 40% or achieve a national standard of 60 micrograms per cubic meter by 2025-26. The program targets 130 cities across the country, with funding and resources dedicated to combating air pollution.

Between 2019-20 and 2023-24, ₹11,211.13 crore was distributed under various initiatives, including the Million Plus City Challenge Fund for 48 cities with a population of more than one million people. The remaining 82 cities received financial support through the Pollution Control Program of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Major cities are seeing improved air quality

The environment ministry noted that 97 out of 130 cities recorded an improvement in air quality in the financial year 2023-24 compared to 2017-18. It is noteworthy that 55 cities managed to reduce PM10 levels by 20% or more. Eighteen cities, including several of the smaller urban centers, meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for PM10, set at 60 micrograms per cubic meter.

Despite the positive trends, the government has acknowledged that there are challenges ahead, especially in cities like Navi Mumbai where pollution levels are rising. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to achieving cleaner air through continuous measures and enhanced monitoring.