Air pollution impacts villages and cities almost equally but pollution control funds only for urban India, shows analysis

Villagers in India Experience Reduced Lifespan Due to Air Pollution

Introduction

A recent analysis conducted by nonprofit Climate Trends has revealed that villagers in India experience a reduction in lifespan due to exposure to air pollution. The analysis, based on satellite data generated by IIT Delhi scientists, highlights the need for a comprehensive air pollution monitoring network in rural areas. This report emphasizes the importance of addressing air pollution in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and calls for action to combat rural pollution.

Comparison of Air Pollution Levels

The analysis shows that in 2022, the average annual level of ultrafine particulate matter (PM 2.5) in rural India was as poor as in urban areas. PM 2.5 is a highly toxic air pollutant that can cause severe health issues. The average PM 2.5 level in rural India was 46.4 microgrammes, just below the urban level of 46.8 microgrammes, while the national limit is 40 microgrammes. This indicates that rural areas are equally affected by air pollution and require immediate attention.

National Clean Air Plan (NCAP)

The National Clean Air Plan (NCAP), launched in 2019, aims to reduce PM 2.5 and PM 10 concentration by 20-30% by 2024. However, the plan has mainly focused on urban areas, with limited investment in rural regions. So far, around Rs 9,000 crores have been allocated for 131 cities that consistently exceed national air pollution limits. This lack of investment in rural areas raises concerns about the government’s approach to combating air pollution.

Rural Air Pollution Levels

The analysis reveals significantly high PM 2.5 pollution levels in rural areas, particularly in Delhi, Bihar, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and West Bengal. These regions experience concentrations above the national limit, posing a serious threat to the health and well-being of rural communities.

Importance of Monitoring and Action

Experts emphasize the need for a comprehensive air pollution monitoring network in rural and non-urban regions. Professor Abhijit Chatterjee of Bose Institute highlights that addressing air pollution in rural areas is crucial for resolving the country’s overall air pollution issue. The lack of monitoring and action in rural India is a significant concern, as it results in a reduced lifespan for villagers.

Call for Policy and Action

Climate experts and researchers advocate for a shift in policy and action towards addressing air pollution in rural India. Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director of research and advocacy at CSE, suggests adopting an airshade arrangement model that includes both cities and rural areas. She highlights the need to prioritize air pollution control in rural regions and calls for the formulation of policies and actions to combat rural pollution.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The issue of air pollution in rural India aligns with the SDGs, particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. Addressing air pollution is essential for promoting healthy lives and well-being for all. It is crucial to develop policies and strategies that prioritize air quality improvement in both urban and rural areas to achieve the SDGs.

Overall, this analysis emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive air pollution monitoring network in rural India. By addressing air pollution in line with the SDGs, the government can ensure healthier lives and well-being for all citizens.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
   • Indicator: PM 2.5 levels in rural and urban areas of India.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
   • Indicator: PM 2.5 levels in urban areas of India.

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Under SDG 3, the specific target that can be identified based on the article’s content is Target 3.9, which aims to reduce deaths and illnesses from air pollution. The article discusses the impact of air pollution on villagers’ lifespan in rural India.

Under SDG 11, the specific target that can be identified based on the article’s content is Target 11.6, which focuses on reducing the adverse environmental impact of cities, including air quality. The article compares the levels of PM 2.5 in rural and urban areas of India.

The article mentions the indicator of PM 2.5 levels in both rural and urban areas of India. It states that the average annual PM 2.5 level in rural India was 46.4 microgrammes, barely below the urban level of 46.8 microgrammes. This indicates the presence of air pollution in both rural and urban areas.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: downtoearth.org.in

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