Over 100 Indian Cities Show Significant Drop in PM10 Pollution Under NCAP Implementation – EQ
In Short : A total of 103 cities across India recorded a reduction in PM10 pollution levels during 2024–25 compared to the baseline year 2017–18, reflecting steady progress under the National Clean Air Programme. The improvement highlights the impact of targeted air quality interventions, coordinated monitoring, and city-specific action plans aimed at reducing particulate pollution nationwide.
In Detail : India’s National Clean Air Programme has delivered measurable progress, with 103 cities reporting lower PM10 concentration levels in 2024–25 compared to 2017–18. This achievement marks an important milestone in the country’s long-term effort to address urban air pollution through structured planning and sustained regulatory action.
The National Clean Air Programme was launched with the objective of reducing particulate matter pollution through a comprehensive, city-centric approach. By focusing on non-attainment cities—those consistently failing to meet air quality standards—the programme aims to bring about systemic improvements in pollution control and environmental governance.
PM10, or particulate matter with a diameter of 10 microns or less, is a major contributor to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Reducing PM10 levels has therefore been a central target under NCAP, with cities implementing a mix of policy, technological, and enforcement-based interventions.
Key measures adopted by cities include stricter control of industrial emissions, improved management of construction and demolition waste, enhanced road dust mitigation, and the promotion of cleaner transportation systems. These actions, when combined, have helped curb one of the most persistent sources of urban air pollution.
Strengthening air quality monitoring networks has played a critical role in tracking progress. Expanded real-time monitoring has enabled authorities to identify pollution hotspots, assess the effectiveness of interventions, and take timely corrective actions based on data-driven insights.
Public awareness and stakeholder engagement have also contributed to the observed improvements. Citizens, local bodies, and industries have increasingly participated in pollution reduction efforts, ranging from cleaner fuel adoption to compliance with emission standards and waste management norms.
Financial support under NCAP has allowed cities to invest in modern pollution control infrastructure and capacity building. These investments have strengthened local implementation capabilities and ensured that action plans are not limited to policy documents but translated into on-ground impact.
Despite the progress, authorities acknowledge that sustained effort is required to maintain and accelerate pollution reduction. Population growth, urban expansion, and rising energy demand continue to pose challenges that require adaptive strategies and continuous monitoring.
The reduction in PM10 levels across 103 cities demonstrates that coordinated national and local action can yield tangible environmental benefits. As NCAP moves forward, the focus remains on deepening these gains, expanding best practices, and ensuring cleaner air for future generations.
