Clean Air Initiative Yields Significant Improvements in 95 Indian Cities

Ninety-five of the 131 cities covered under the National Clean Air Programme have shown improved air quality, with 21 reducing PM10 pollution by over 40%, as per CPCB data. Surat, Jabalpur, and Agra were ranked the top cities for air quality improvements during the Swachh Vayu Survekshan - 2024.

Ninety-five out of 131 cities included in the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) have demonstrated notable improvements in air quality, with 21 cities successfully reducing PM10 pollution by more than 40% compared to 2017-18 levels, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

The CPCB revealed that only 18 NCAP cities complied with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for PM10, set at 60 micrograms per cubic metre. Notable cities achieving over 40% reduction in PM10 levels include Varanasi, Dhanbad, Bareilly, and Greater Mumbai, among others.

The Swachh Vayu Survekshan - 2024, held in Jaipur, spotlighted Surat, Jabalpur, and Agra for their top performances in air quality improvements. Initiatives like mechanical sweeping, solid waste management, and greenbelt development played crucial roles in achieving these reductions.

(With inputs from agencies.)