Air Pollution Crisis in Southern Cities: Greenpeace Report Flags Urgent Health Concerns

A Greenpeace India report reveals worsening air quality in major cities like Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Mysuru. The study highlights serious health risks as average PM2.5 and PM10 levels exceed WHO guidelines across 10 southern cities. Urgent actions, including revised air quality standards and investment in renewable energy, are recommended.

Three major cities in Karnataka -- Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Mysuru -- have registered deteriorating air quality as the air pollution is on the rise, said a Greenpeace India report on Saturday.

The report 'Spare the Air 2' flags serious health concerns as the average PM2.5 and PM10 levels soar in 10 major cities of southern India, significantly exceeding the air quality guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The study has analysed air quality standards across Hyderabad, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Kochi, Mangaluru, Amravati, Vijayawada, Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Puducherry. Notably, PM2.5 and PM10 levels have reached alarming figures.

Lead researcher Akanksha Singh emphasized the need to proactively manage air quality in cities currently in compliance to prevent future non-attainment. Greenpeace India campaigner Selomi Garnaik urged the Central Pollution Control Board to adopt a health-based approach in revising National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), catering to region-specific needs.

The report advocates for new NAAQ standards, increased investment in 'hybrid' air quality monitoring networks, and renewable energy solutions. It also suggests creating awareness programs to encourage sustainable practices like public transport, electric vehicles, and solar energy.

Greenpeace India's campaign manager Avinash Chanchal stated that the report debunks the myth of cleaner air in the southern states, calling for comprehensive and long-term strategies to mitigate air pollution in these regions.

(With inputs from agencies.)