India's Battle with Air Quality: Challenges and Solutions

A report highlights that 13 of the world's top 20 most polluted cities are in India, with Byrnihat leading. Although India saw a decline in PM2.5 levels, Delhi remains the most polluted capital. India faces health risks and potential solutions involve stronger regulations and subsidies for cleaner energy.

The World Air Quality Report 2024, released by Swiss company IQAir, places 13 Indian cities among the world's top 20 most polluted, with Byrnihat leading the list. Despite a 7% drop in PM2.5 concentrations, India remains the fifth most polluted country, with Delhi notably suffering from severe air pollution.

The report reveals that India's air pollution poses significant health risks, potentially reducing life expectancy by 5.2 years. A Lancet study links about 1.5 million annual deaths in India to PM2.5 exposure between 2009 and 2019. Key pollution sources include vehicular emissions, industrial output, and biomass burning.

Air quality improvement measures were suggested by experts like Soumya Swaminathan, emphasizing data-driven action, incentives for LPG use, expanded public transport, and stricter emission law enforcement. These strategies aim to combat air pollution, emphasizing the critical need for both penalties and support mechanisms.

(With inputs from agencies.)