India's Significant Decline in Particulate Pollution in 2022

India recorded a 19.3% decline in particulate pollution in 2022, the second-highest globally after Bangladesh. This improvement potentially adds an average of one year to Indian life expectancy. However, 42.6% of the population still lives in areas exceeding national air quality standards. The 'Air Quality Life Index' report highlights the need for stronger policies.

India registered a notable 19.3% decline in particulate pollution in 2022, positioning it as the second highest in the world, following Bangladesh. According to the 'Air Quality Life Index' 2024 report from the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC), this reduction could add an average of one year to the life expectancy of Indian citizens.

Despite this progress, 42.6% of the Indian population continues to live in regions where air pollution levels exceed the national air quality standard of 40 micrograms per cubic metre. Furthermore, the report indicates that failure to meet the WHO's annual PM2.5 standard of 5 micrograms per cubic metre could cost Indians 3.6 years of life expectancy.

The researchers attributed this decline to favorable meteorological conditions and fewer thermal inversions in 2022. However, districts like Purulia and Bankura in West Bengal, and various districts in Jharkhand, recorded the most significant drops in PM2.5 concentrations. The report underscores the urgent need for stronger national air quality standards and effective implementation to protect public health.

(With inputs from agencies.)