Indore’s Air Quality Challenges Amid Clean City Status

Indore, the largest city in Madhya Pradesh, has been recognised as India’s cleanest city for seven consecutive years. However, it faces challenge regarding air quality. Recent government data shows a 21% increase in PM10 levels from 2017-18 to 2023-24. This increase places Indore among the 31 ‘non-attainment’ cities monitored under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). The programme aims to reduce PM10 levels by 40% by 2025-26.

Urbanisation and Industrial Growth

Indore’s rapid urbanisation has contributed to its air quality issues. The built-up area of the city has expanded nine-fold from 1975 to 2014, higher than the average increase in other Indian cities. The city hosts over 3,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and has numerous real estate projects underway. This growth has driven revenue from property registrations to Rs 1,339 crore, marking a 7.2% increase from the previous year.

Transportation and Traffic Management

Indore is a major transport hub, intersected by three national highways and several state highways. The city has over 20 lakh vehicles, with thousands of new registrations each month. Traffic congestion has worsened, leading to increased emissions. Experts note that the failure of traffic management to keep pace with vehicle growth exacerbates air pollution. Road dust and vehicular emissions are primary contributors to Indore’s pollution.

Pollution Sources

A source-apportionment study indicates that road dust is the leading contributor to PM10 levels, accounting for nearly three-fourths of coarse particulate matter. Other sources include transportation, industrial activities, construction, and household cooking. Fine particulate pollution (PM2.5) mirrors this trend, with road dust also leading at 55%.

Natural Advantages and Mitigation Measures

Indore’s geographical location provides some natural advantages for air quality management. The city experiences higher wind speeds, which help disperse pollutants. Additionally, the black soil in the region generates less dust compared to alluvial soil. City officials are advocating for large-scale tree planting and improved road cleaning to manage dust. Plans to enhance public transport with electric and CNG vehicles aim to reduce vehicular emissions.

Data Monitoring and Future Steps

To effectively address air quality, Indore has increased its air pollution monitoring stations to seven. However, studies suggest a need for at least 26 monitors to accurately gauge particulate matter levels in the region. Enhanced data collection will enable authorities to target pollution hotspots and improve air quality, aligning it with national safety standards.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the relationship between urbanisation and air quality in Indian cities.
2. Critically examine the effectiveness of the National Clean Air Programme in combating urban air pollution.
3. Explain the role of transportation in contributing to urban air pollution in India.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the impact of geographical factors on air quality management in Indian cities.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the relationship between urbanisation and air quality in Indian cities.

1. Rapid urbanisation often leads to increased construction and vehicular traffic, contributing to higher pollution levels.
2. Indore’s built-up area expanded nine-fold from 1975 to 2014, impacting air quality.
3. Urban areas typically experience higher emissions from industries and MSMEs due to concentrated economic activities.
4. Inadequate infrastructure and pollution management systems struggle to cope with rapid population growth.
5. Effective urban planning and green spaces can mitigate the adverse effects of urbanisation on air quality.

2. Critically examine the effectiveness of the National Clean Air Programme in combating urban air pollution.

1. The NCAP aims to reduce PM10 levels by 40% by 2025-26, addressing air quality in 130 monitored cities.
2. Despite its goals, cities like Indore have shown a 21% increase in PM10 levels since 2017-18.
3. Implementation challenges include insufficient data monitoring and lack of localized pollution control measures.
4. Success depends on coordinated efforts between government bodies, local authorities, and community engagement.
5. Continuous assessment and adjustment of strategies are necessary to achieve the programme’s objectives effectively.

3. Explain the role of transportation in contributing to urban air pollution in India.

1. Transportation is a major source of air pollution, with vehicular emissions contributing to PM10 and PM2.5 levels.
2. Indore has over 20 lakh vehicles, with thousands of new registrations monthly, exacerbating pollution issues.
3. Traffic congestion leads to increased emissions from idling vehicles and road dust resuspension.
4. Public transport inadequacies result in higher reliance on personal vehicles, further worsening air quality.
5. Improving public transport and promoting electric and CNG vehicles are crucial for reducing transportation-related pollution.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the impact of geographical factors on air quality management in Indian cities.

1. Indore’s windier climate helps disperse pollutants, unlike the bowl-shaped Indo-Gangetic Plains that trap air pollution.
2. The black soil in central India generates less dust compared to alluvial soil, reducing particulate matter in the air.
3. Geographical features can influence urban planning, such as the placement of industries and transport routes.
4. Natural vegetation and topography can enhance air quality by acting as barriers to pollution spread.
5. Effective air quality management strategies must consider geographical characteristics to tailor solutions appropriately.