Indore on Track to Meet National Air Quality Standards

Indore, known as India's cleanest city, could meet national air quality standards within a year with increased efforts, says Naresh Pal Gangwar, additional secretary of the Environment Ministry. Improved air quality in Indore is attributed to civic administration's actions, combating major pollutants like PM10 and PM2.5.

Indore, celebrated as India's cleanest city, is on the brink of meeting national air quality standards within a year. This optimism comes from Naresh Pal Gangwar, additional secretary at the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, who emphasized the importance of intensified efforts.

Despite Indore's consistent achievements in sanitation, ranking top in the National Sanitation Survey seven consecutive times, data indicates that pollutant levels, specifically PM10 and PM2.5, remain slightly above national benchmarks. However, with continued diligence, reaching compliance seems attainable soon.

Key contributors to Indore's air pollution, particularly vehicular pollution and road dust, account for a significant portion of the city's air quality issues, according to a Clean Air Catalyst study. Meanwhile, Indore is competing in the inaugural 'Super Swachh League' in the Swachhta Survey 2024, facing off with Navi Mumbai and Surat.

(With inputs from agencies.)