Answer:

Introduction:

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recently released revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs), which provide key recommendations for reducing air pollution and protecting public health.

Body:

Key Points of the Revised Guidelines:

• Expanded Pollutant Coverage: The revised AQGs provide guidelines for six pollutants: particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone (O₃), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO). This broader coverage reflects a more comprehensive understanding of air pollution’s health impacts.
• Stricter Limits: The guidelines introduce stricter limits for the recommended levels of air pollutants. For example, the annual average for PM2.5 should not exceed 5 micrograms per cubic meter, while the 24-hour average should not exceed 15 micrograms per cubic meter. Similarly, limits are set for other pollutants, emphasizing the need for improved air quality.
• Changes from the 2005 Update:
  • Time Gap: The previous update of the AQGs was released in 2005, making the recent revision the first in nearly two decades. This time gap underscores the importance of addressing emerging scientific evidence, health risks, and changing global air pollution patterns.
  • Inclusion of New Pollutants: The 2021 revision includes guidelines for additional pollutants, such as PM2.5 and PM10. These fine particulate matters are known to have severe health effects and were not covered in the 2005 update.

India’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and Required Changes:

• Stringent Targets: To align with the revised WHO guidelines, India’s NCAP needs to establish more stringent targets for reducing particulate matter concentrations. The existing targets, aiming for a 20% to 30% reduction by 2024, should be revised to reflect the stricter pollutant limits recommended by WHO.
• Enhanced Implementation: The NCAP should focus on effective implementation of measures to achieve the revised air quality standards. This may involve stricter regulations for industries, adoption of cleaner technologies, promotion of renewable energy sources, and improved monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.
• Comprehensive Approach: The NCAP should adopt a holistic and integrated approach to address air pollution. This includes implementing an airshed-based strategy that considers regional air pollution patterns and coordination among various stakeholders, including government agencies, industries, communities, and civil society.
• Public Awareness and Participation: The NCAP should emphasize public awareness and engagement to encourage citizen participation in combating air pollution. This can involve campaigns to educate the public about the health risks, encouraging behavioral changes, and promoting sustainable practices.

Conclusion:

To achieve the revised air quality standards recommended by WHO, India’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) needs to undergo significant changes. The programme should adopt more stringent targets for particulate matter concentrations, aligning with the WHO guidelines. An airshed approach that considers regional pollution sources and comprehensive measures is necessary to effectively combat air pollution in India and ensure cleaner and healthier air for its citizens.

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