Air pollution is a global concern that entails the contamination of Earth’s atmosphere with harmful substances exceeding their natural levels. These substances are introduced into the atmosphere through various human activities and natural processes such as industry emissions, vehicle exhaust, agricultural practices, and natural events. The consequences of air pollution are far-reaching, impacting air quality, human well-being, ecosystems, and overall planetary health.
Common pollutants involved in air pollution include PM2.5 and PM10 particles, Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Nitric Oxides (NOx), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and Carbon Monoxide (CO) among others.
Technological Responses to Air Pollution
In response to escalating air pollution, numerous technological projects have been initiated in India. One such initiative was the pilot study with Pariyayantra Filtration units installed on 30 buses. These devices are designed to capture dust particles from the surrounding environment, thereby reducing vehicular contributions to air pollution.
Similarly, at major traffic intersections in Delhi, 54 WAYU Air Purification Units were installed. These units act as localized air purifiers, mitigating the impact of vehicular emissions on air quality.
Furthermore, ionization technology has been explored to neutralize pollutants, thereby enhancing air quality in specified areas. This technology presents an interesting avenue for future pollution reduction strategies.
Efforts Towards Large-Scale Pollution Control
Efforts towards large-scale pollution control have resulted in the installation of medium and large-scale smog towers. These towers purify air on a broad scale by reducing particulate matter and other pollutants.
Another concerted effort was a pilot project aimed at assessing the feasibility of retrofitting emission control devices in older vehicles, which are typically significant contributors to air pollution.
Real-Time Monitoring and Data Accessibility
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has been proactive in addressing the challenge of air pollution by developing an indigenous photonic system for real-time remote monitoring of air quality parameters. This project is designed to improve the accuracy and accessibility of air quality data, thereby informing more effective pollution management strategies.
Autonomous Technology in the Electric Vehicle (EV) Sector
Recognizing the potential of EVs in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, initiatives have been taken towards advancements in EV autonomous technology. The integration of autonomous technology in EVs presents an opportunity to optimize driving patterns, reduce traffic congestion, and subsequently lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Government Initiatives Towards Air Pollution Control
Several government initiatives have also been undertaken to curb air pollution. These include the Graded Response Action Plan in Delhi, the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), the introduction of BS-VI vehicles, the Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) program, a dashboard for monitoring air quality, and the National Air Quality Index (AQI).
These broad-ranging efforts, from technological innovations to policy initiatives, demonstrate a multifaceted and aggressive approach to tackling and mitigating the impacts of air pollution on India’s population and environment.
