Impact of Air Pollution in India
A comprehensive study by the Energy Policy Institute (EPIC) at the University of Chicago has highlighted the severe effects of air pollution on life expectancy in India. It emphasizes that air pollution is a nationwide issue, not just restricted to the heavily polluted areas like Delhi.
Key Findings
- Indians are losing 3.5 years of life expectancy on average due to particulate pollution.
- The 2023 average annual concentration of PM2.5 in India was 41 μg/cubic metre, exceeding WHO's recommended limit of 5 μg/cubic metre and India’s standard of 40 μg/cubic metre.
- If pollution levels were reduced to WHO norms, life expectancy in Delhi could rise by 8.2 years, and by 5 years in the northern plains.
- States like Chhattisgarh, Tripura, and Jharkhand have high particulate concentrations, reducing life expectancy by approximately 3.7 years.
Government Initiatives
- The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aims to reduce PM2.5 levels by 40% by 2026 in 131 "non-attainment" cities.
- Progress has been made, with a 10.7% decline in particulate pollution in these cities, extending lives by six months for about 445 million people.
- Fuel standards have improved to Bharat Stage-VI, and 22 cities now meet India's national standards, though these remain more lenient than WHO guidelines.
Comparative Analysis and Recommendations
- China's example shows significant pollution reduction with determined policy action, achieving nearly a 40% decrease in a decade.
- For India, incremental steps are insufficient; a transition to clean energy is imperative.
- Proposed measures include:
- PM Surya Ghar for rooftop solar energy.
- PM Kusum for clean farm energy.
- Stronger incentives for electric vehicles.
- Effective solutions for stubble burning through crop diversification and waste-to-energy investments are necessary.
Conclusion
The EPIC report underscores that air pollution is a persistent, year-round crisis rather than a seasonal issue. Urgent and comprehensive measures are needed to address this public health emergency effectively.