National Clean Air Programme

22.07.2024

National Clean Air Programme

Why in the news?                        

A new study by Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) said that road dust mitigation works undertaken to reduce particulate matter 10 (PM10) pollution is draining a lion’s share  64%  of funds under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).

About National Clean Air Programme:

• It was launched in January, 2019 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
• It is a long-term, time-bound, national level strategy to tackle the air pollution problem across the country in a comprehensive manner.

Objectives of the NCAP

• Stringently implementing mitigation measures to prevent, control, and abate air pollution.
• Strengthening an air quality monitoring network across the country.
• Increasing public awareness and capacity building measures.

Target of the National Clean Air Programme

• NCAP envisages reduction by 20-30% in PM 10 concentration over baseline in 2017 by 2024.
• Target has been revised to achieve reduction in PM10 level up to 40% or achievement of national standards (60 µg/m3) by 2025-26.

Implementation

• In accordance with the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) will execute this nationwide program.
• 131 non-attainment cities have been identified across the country for the implementation of the programme.
• City-specific action plans have been developed, which include measures to strengthen the monitoring network, reduce vehicular or industrial emissions, raise public awareness, etc.
• The implementation of city-specific action plans is regularly monitored by Central and State Committees, namely the Steering Committee, Monitoring Committee and Implementation Committee.
• State Pollution Control Boards monitor city air quality and publish their findings on a regular basis.

                                                                    Source: Indian Express

Ques :- With reference to the National Clean Air Programme, consider the following statements:

1. It was launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.

2. It has a target to achieve a reduction in PM10 level up to 40% by 2025-26.

3. Under this programme Central Pollution Control Board monitors city air quality and publishes its findings regularly.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

A.Only one

B.Only two

C.All three

D.None

Answer B