Air pollution crisis in southern cities: Greenpeace report signals urgent health concerns

Greenpeace India released a report on Saturday saying that air quality has deteriorated in Karnataka’s three largest cities — Bengaluru, Mangaluru and Mysuru — due to an increase in air pollution.

The Save Air 2 report highlights serious health concerns as average levels of PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter are rising rapidly in 10 major cities in southern India, far exceeding air quality guidelines set by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The study analysed the air quality standards in Hyderabad, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Kochi, Mangaluru, Amravati, Vijayawada, Bengaluru, Mysuru and Puducherry. Interestingly, the levels of PM2.5 and PM10 reached alarming levels.

Lead researcher Akanksha Singh stressed the need for proactive air quality management in cities that currently meet the requirements to prevent future failures. Greenpeace India activist Selomi Garnaik urged the Central Pollution Control Board to adopt a health-based approach in the revision of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), taking into account region-specific needs.

The report advocates for new NAAQ standards, increased investment in “hybrid” air quality monitoring networks and renewable energy solutions, and suggests creating awareness programs to encourage sustainable practices such as public transport, electric vehicles and solar power.

Avinash Chanchal, campaign manager, Greenpeace India, said the report debunks the myth of cleaner air in southern states and calls for comprehensive and long-term strategies to curb air pollution in these regions.

(Based on information from the agency.)