Helena Joyce
India is one of the world's most polluted countries, with 17 of the world's 30 cities with the worst air pollution. As a result, air pollution accounts for more than 2 million deaths a year in India and leads to health problems like respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. To combat this, India has implemented various initiatives, such as the National Clean Air Program, which aims to reduce particulate matter pollution by 40% by 2026, and the Clean Air Research Initiative (CARI), which focuses on identifying technologies that can mitigate air pollution. India is also transitioning to zero-emission vehicles and embracing solar energy, with 60% of Delhi Metro's daytime energy requirements now being met through solar power. Additionally, the private sector plays a crucial role in combating air pollution, with platforms like the Confederation of Indian Industry's CEO Forum for Clean Air bringing business leaders together to drive change.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Air pollution sources | Thermal power plants, vehicle emissions, industrial emissions, burning of crop residue, burning of fuelwood and biomass, fuel adulteration, and traffic congestion |
| Air pollution impacts | Health problems including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, premature deaths, and economic losses |
| Air pollution management strategies | National Clean Air Program, India Lighthouse initiative, Clean Air Research Initiative (CARI), airshed management, solar energy adoption, zero-emission vehicles, remote sensing technology for vehicle emissions, air purification technologies |
| Organizations involved | Clean Air Fund, Confederation of Indian Industry, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Department of Science & Technology (DST), World Bank |
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What You'll Learn
Transition to zero-emission vehicles
India is one of the world's most polluted countries, with 17 of the world's 30 cities with the worst air pollution. The Indian government has taken steps to address this, including launching the National Clean Air Program, which aims to reduce particulate matter pollution by 40% by 2026.
One key aspect of improving air quality in India is the transition to zero-emission vehicles. India's road logistics industry, which handles 70% of domestic freight, is a significant contributor to pollution, responsible for 4% of the country's energy-related CO2 emissions and 53% of particulate matter emissions. As the trucking fleet is expected to grow fourfold by 2050, transitioning to zero-emission trucks (ZETs) is critical for the environment and public health.
The Indian government has recognized the importance of this transition, joining the Zero Emission Vehicle Transition Council at COP26. This council discusses ways to accelerate the push towards early adoption of zero-emission vehicles, with major automobile companies signing a declaration committing to 100% zero-emission new car and van sales in leading markets by 2035 or earlier. India itself had previously announced a plan to transition to 100% electric vehicles by 2032, with a 30% transition target for passenger cars and 70% for commercial vehicles by 2030.
To facilitate this transition, India can take several steps. Firstly, establishing a Just Transition Fund for India (JTFI) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) can help finance reskilling programs and provide loans and grants to those impacted by the shift. This ensures that the transition is people-centric and does not exacerbate existing inequalities. Secondly, India can encourage business adoption of electric medium and heavy-duty freight trucks. Increasing fuel costs and stricter emission norms will likely play a role in this transition, but proactive measures such as targeted corporate initiatives and a robust policy environment are also necessary to build momentum.
The transition to zero-emission vehicles in India is crucial for improving air quality and addressing the health and economic impacts of pollution. Through a combination of government initiatives, funding, and business adoption, India can accelerate its progress towards a cleaner and healthier future.
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Solar energy revolution
India is one of the world's most polluted countries, with 17 of the world's 30 cities with the worst air pollution. The country has also experienced one of the fastest-growing economies globally, and better air quality management offers an opportunity to accelerate this growth.
India has already put in motion many of the essential "sector transitions" needed to improve air quality management, and the nation is spearheading a solar-energy revolution. This revolution is transforming the energy landscape, with India currently standing 4th globally in solar power capacity. In the last five years, the country's solar installed capacity has experienced a monumental transformation, increasing from 21,651 MW to 70,096 MW in 2023.
The National Solar Mission (NSM), launched in 2010, is a significant initiative by the Government of India to promote ecological sustainable growth while addressing the country's energy security challenges. NSM aims to establish India as a global leader in solar energy by creating the policy conditions for solar technology diffusion. The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) is another policy that incentivizes this diffusion.
The environmental benefits of solar power advancements include mitigating climate change through reduced carbon footprints, reducing air and water pollution, and securing the planet's future. Solar energy has already benefited millions of people in Indian villages by meeting their cooking, lighting, and other energy needs in an environmentally friendly manner. It has also improved health outcomes by minimizing the risks of contracting lung and eye ailments.
The 14th National Electricity Plan (NEP14), introduced in May 2023, aims to double the country's electricity generation capacity by 2032, with solar energy playing a pivotal role. NEP14 outlines ambitious targets for solar power, anticipating a surge in its share from 5% in 2022 to 25% by 2032, and projects that solar energy will grow from 66.78 GW in 2023 to 366 GW by 2032, constituting half of the total growth. India's solar capacity is expected to increase at a CAGR of 22.7% through 2023–2027 to achieve its initial target of 185.6 GW by 2027, further expected to increase to 364.6 GW by 2032.
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Airshed management
The World Bank is actively supporting airshed management in India by introducing tools for planning and management. They are working with a team of Indian experts to tailor internationally adopted models, such as GAINS (Greenhouse gas and Air pollution Interactions and Synergies), to local conditions in the Indo-Gangetic Plain states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The World Bank program also supports connecting with academic institutions and practitioners to carry out air quality management work, including modelling.
To effectively implement airshed management, a few key steps are necessary. Firstly, there must be collective motivation and incentives to justify the need for airshed air quality management, as it requires significant time, resources, and planning. Secondly, delineating an airshed involves emission quantification, analysis of meteorological data, and air quality modelling to understand pollution dispersion. Lastly, enforcement must be taken seriously, as seen in the success of California's airshed management.
By adopting these measures, India can make substantial progress in reducing air pollution and improving the health and well-being of its citizens, while also reducing the economic losses associated with air pollution, estimated at $36.8 billion in 2019.
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Traffic congestion reduction
India is one of the most polluted countries in the world, and traffic congestion is a major contributor to this. A 2014 WHO study found that 13 of the world's 20 most polluted cities are in India, with Delhi being the most polluted capital city globally. Air pollution accounts for about 2 million deaths a year in India, and also leads to health problems like respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Traffic congestion is also economically regressive, environmentally hazardous, and psychologically traumatic. It is therefore important to implement measures to reduce traffic congestion. Here are some strategies that can help:
Transport Demand Management (TDM) Strategies
Employers, especially in the IT sector, can encourage employees to use sustainable modes of transportation and reduce the use of private cars. City governments should also support these measures by improving the quality of public transit without compromising affordability. For example, the Indian city of Bangalore is engaging with the private sector to shift how employees commute to work, reducing traffic congestion and costs.
Congestion Charging and Parking Policies
Indian cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi have proposed congestion charging initiatives like London's, but these plans have not been implemented due to opposition from commercial business owners and car users. City leaders need to recognize the value of TDM strategies and implement appropriate parking policies to ensure the success of congestion charging initiatives.
Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS)
The new Intelligent Traffic Management System in Delhi uses Artificial Intelligence algorithms to manage traffic signals, detect and respond to incidents, and catch traffic violators. This technology can help reduce traffic congestion and improve the flow of traffic.
Multi-Level Parking and U-turns
In crowded public areas like markets in Delhi, multi-level parking can help to de-congest the roads. Additionally, using U-turns instead of traffic signals can improve traffic flow in some areas.
Cycling Infrastructure
The Indian government has proposed a cycle-sharing system in Dwarka, with 315 cycle stations and 4500 cycles, to be completed within a 2-year window. This will improve last-mile connectivity, reduce the carbon footprint, and contribute to better overall citizen health.
Improving Public Transport
The lack of public transport in India's megacities has incentivized the use of private vehicles. While efforts to build metro and bus rapid transit systems are ongoing, these projects take time and currently contribute to traffic congestion. City governments should prioritize improving public transport systems and investing in sustainable mobility initiatives.
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Public health awareness
India is one of the world's most polluted countries, with 17 of the world's 30 cities with the worst air pollution. The Indian government has taken steps to address this issue, recognising the devastating impact on health and the economy.
Secondly, public health awareness initiatives can highlight the health risks associated with air pollution, particularly the dangers of PM2.5, which is the most harmful pollutant in India. According to the World Health Organization, PM2.5 concentrations in Delhi are nearly ten times higher than the recommended guidelines. Increasing awareness about the health implications can motivate individuals to take action, make lifestyle changes, and advocate for stronger policies to combat pollution.
Additionally, awareness campaigns can promote the concept of 'airshed management'. This approach recognises that air pollution is a shared issue across Indian states, and effective solutions require collaboration between regions. By understanding the interconnected nature of air pollution, the public can support coordinated efforts and policies that address pollution on a broader scale, rather than solely focusing on local emissions.
Furthermore, public health awareness can encourage the adoption of innovative technologies to tackle air pollution. For instance, the Department of Science and Technology has developed Wind Augmentation and Air Purifying Unit (WAYU) devices, which can be placed in areas affected by traffic congestion to actively remove pollutants. Raising awareness about such technologies and their effectiveness can drive their implementation in communities across India.
Lastly, public health awareness can empower individuals to take collective action and engage with policymakers. By understanding their role in addressing pollution, citizens can report incidents, share information, and collaborate with government initiatives, such as the National Clean Air Program, to drive meaningful change. This two-way engagement between the public and authorities is vital for successful pollution control.
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Frequently asked questions
The main sources of pollution in India are fuelwood and biomass burning, fuel adulteration, vehicle emissions, and traffic congestion.
The health impacts of pollution in India are significant, with air pollution accounting for more than 2 million deaths per year and leading to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
The Indian government has launched the National Clean Air Program to reduce particulate matter pollution by 40% by 2026. They are also supporting state and regional air quality management approaches and promoting the transition to zero-emission vehicles.
The private sector is also working to address air pollution in India. The Confederation of Indian Industry's CEO Forum for Clean Air brings together business leaders to catalyse cross-sector change. Remote sensing technology is being used to measure vehicle emissions in real time, and the Clean Air Fund is empowering healthcare professionals to amplify the health voices in the clean energy movement.
Specific action plans include the identification of 13 hotspots in Delhi with higher air pollution levels and the development of the Wind Augmentation and Air Purifying Unit (WAYU) devices to be positioned in areas near traffic intersections to tackle air pollution. Additionally, sensor fusion systems are being designed to be mounted on vehicles to aid in real-time air quality mapping of cities.
