Recent studies in Kolkata reveal alarming findings about PM2.5. This particulate matter poses serious health risks. It is a key air quality indicator. The toxicity of PM2.5 experiences increase when pollution levels exceed 70 µg m-3. This threshold indicates a critical point for public health.
About PM2.5 and Its Impact
PM2.5 consists of fine particles smaller than 2.5 micrometres. These particles can penetrate deep into the lungs. They are linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The health implications are severe, making PM2.5 a major air pollutant.
The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
Launched in 2019, the NCAP aims to reduce PM2.5 levels by 40% by 2026. The programme targets 131 non-attainment cities, including Kolkata. It seeks to implement strategies and action plans to improve air quality. The initiative is crucial for urban areas struggling with pollution.
Role of Bose Institute in Air Quality Research
Bose Institute conducts research on air quality in Kolkata. It has been designated as the Nodal Institute under the NCAP. Researchers, including Prof. Abhijit Chatterjee, study the toxicity of atmospheric aerosols. They focus on the oxidative potential of PM2.5. This research helps understand how PM2.5 affects human health.
Findings on Toxicity and Pollution Load
The research indicates a non-linear relationship between PM2.5 levels and toxicity. Toxicity remains stable until PM2.5 reaches 70 µg m-3. Beyond this point, toxicity increases sharply. At around 130 µg m-3, toxicity levels plateau. This information is vital for setting pollution control measures.
Major Sources of PM2.5 in Kolkata
A source of PM2.5 in Kolkata is biomass and solid waste burning. This activity contributes heavily to the city’s air pollution. While the NCAP has effectively reduced other sources, biomass burning remains problematic. Addressing this source is critical for improving air quality.
Implications for Policy and Public Health
The study introduces a toxicity standard for PM2.5 at 70 µg m-3. This standard guides policy decisions. It emphasises the need for stringent measures to control PM2.5 levels. Urban local bodies are encouraged to monitor biomass burning closely. The findings have already influenced air quality improvements in Kolkata.
Recent Air Quality Improvements
Following these findings, Kolkata has seen improvements in air quality. Stricter regulations on biomass burning have been implemented. The winter months from November 2024 to February 2025 showed better air quality results. Continued efforts are necessary to maintain this progress.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the health impacts of PM2.5 pollution on urban populations.
- What are the key strategies of the National Clean Air Programme? How effective have they been in reducing air pollution?
- Estimate the correlation between biomass burning and urban air quality deterioration in Indian cities.
- Point out the significance of research institutions like Bose Institute in shaping environmental policy in India.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the health impacts of PM2.5 pollution on urban populations.
- PM2.5 particles penetrate deep into lungs, causing respiratory diseases.
- Linked to cardiovascular problems, increasing heart attack and stroke risks.
- Exacerbates pre-existing health conditions, particularly in vulnerable populations.
- Long-term exposure leads to chronic health issues and premature mortality.
- Increased healthcare costs and burden on urban health systems due to pollution-related illnesses.
2. What are the key strategies of the National Clean Air Programme? How effective have they been in reducing air pollution?
- Targeted reduction of PM2.5 levels by 40% by 2026 from 2017 levels.
- Focus on 131 non-attainment cities with tailored action plans for each.
- Implementation of monitoring systems to track air quality improvements.
- Collaboration with local bodies for stricter regulations on pollution sources.
- Initial success in reducing road dust and vehicular emissions, but challenges remain with biomass burning.
3. Estimate the correlation between biomass burning and urban air quality deterioration in Indian cities.
- Biomass burning is contributor to PM2.5 levels, especially in urban areas.
- It releases harmful particulate matter, exacerbating respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
- Studies show a direct link between biomass burning activities and spikes in air pollution levels.
- Urban areas with high biomass burning report poorer air quality and health outcomes.
- Addressing biomass burning is crucial for achieving sustainable urban air quality improvements.
4. Point out the significance of research institutions like Bose Institute in shaping environmental policy in India.
- Conducts critical research on air quality and pollution impacts on health.
- Acts as a knowledge partner in national programs like the NCAP.
- Provides data-driven insights that inform policy decisions and regulations.
- Facilitates collaboration between government, academia, and local bodies for effective action.
- Raises public awareness and understanding of environmental issues through research findings.
