In 2024, India’s PM2.5 concentration was over 10 times the WHO’s safe limit, recorded at 50.6µg/m3. The country ranks poorly against other nations and cities, with alarming pollution levels attributed to industrial activities and vehicular emissions. The IQAir report calls for urgent action to combat air pollution and enhance public transport infrastructures.
According to the IQAir “World Air Quality Report 2024,” India’s annual PM2.5 concentration reached 50.6 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3), significantly exceeding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guideline of 5µg/m3. This concentration, while a slight decline from the previous year’s 54.4µg/m3, still signifies a critical public health concern. Furthermore, only seven countries globally met the recommended guidelines for PM2.5 levels.
The report notes that globally, only 17% of cities and countries such as Australia and New Zealand have managed to maintain PM2.5 levels below the WHO’s safety threshold. India ranks considerably high in terms of PM2.5 concentration, trailing behind nations like Chad and Bangladesh. Notably, Byrnihat recorded the highest PM2.5 concentration in India at 128.2µg/m3, while New Delhi reached 91.8µg/m3, surpassing levels in both Chad and Dhaka.
The IQAir report emphasizes the severe air pollution crisis faced by many regions, underlined by the statement from Frank Hammes, IQAir’s CEO, stressing the necessity of air quality data in formulating health policies and enhancing public consciousness regarding pollution levels. Despite a slight overall reduction in PM2.5 levels, specific areas such as Faridabad and Gurugram continue to report alarmingly high concentrations of 101.2µg/m3 and 87.5µg/m3, respectively.
The decline in air quality is attributed to industrial activities, vehicle emissions, and construction dust. Experts such as Vijay Choudhary from the Haryana State Pollution Control Board highlight ongoing challenges in emission control, particularly exacerbated during winter season smog episodes. Community advocate Gauri Sareen expresses concern over health consequences, particularly for vulnerable groups exposed to the polluted air.
Avinash Chanchal from Greenpeace India articulates that inadequate public transport infrastructure continues to hinder progress in reducing pollution. He stresses that governmental efforts under clean air action plans have been insufficient and emphasizes that enhancing public transport should be a priority in combatting air pollution effectively.
In summary, the IQAir report reveals dire air quality issues in India, with PM2.5 concentrations exceeding safe limits for public health. Urban areas like New Delhi and Gurugram continue to face high pollution levels influenced by industrial emissions and inadequate public transport. Despite some reduction in overall PM2.5 levels, substantial efforts are required to address the root causes of air pollution, safeguard public health, and meet WHO guidelines.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
