97 out of 130 cities improve air quality, 55 achieve over 20% drop since 2017-18: Environment Ministry

The Ministry of Environment on Monday, November 25, said that 97 out of 130 cities registered improvements in air quality during the fiscal year 2023-24 compared to 2017-18. In addition, 55 cities achieved reductions in PM10 levels of 20% or more.

Responding to a question, Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav informed the Parliament about notable reductions in PM10 concentration levels in several cities across India from 2017-18 to 2023-24, citing efforts under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and funding from the 15th Finance Commission.

According to the ministry, Greater Mumbai recorded the most substantial decline in PM10 levels, dropping by 42% from 161 micrograms per cubic metre to 94 micrograms. Ghaziabad followed with a 40% reduction, bringing its PM10 levels down from 285 to 172 micrograms.

Noida saw a 21% improvement, while Delhi, one of the world’s most polluted cities, registered a 14% decrease in levels, down from 241 to 208 micrograms. However, Navi Mumbai reported an 11% rise in PM10 levels during the same period, increasing from 88 to 98 micrograms.

The Ministry of Environment noted that 97 out of 130 cities registered improvements in air quality during the fiscal year 2023-24 compared to 2017-18. Notably, 55 cities achieved reductions in PM10 levels of 20% or more. Eighteen cities, including several from smaller urban centres, met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for PM10, pegged at 60 micrograms per cubic metre.

National Clean Air Programme’s Role

Launched in January 2019, the NCAP aims to reduce PM10 levels by up to 40% or achieve the national standard of 60 micrograms per cubic metre by 2025-26. The programme targets 130 cities across the country, with funding and resources allocated to combat air pollution.

Between 2019-20 and 2023-24, ₹11,211.13 crore was distributed under various initiatives, including the Million Plus City Challenge Fund for 48 cities with populations exceeding one million. The remaining 82 cities received financial support through the Control of Pollution Scheme of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Despite the positive trends, the government acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly in cities like Navi Mumbai, which have seen a rise in pollution levels. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to achieving cleaner air through sustained interventions and enhanced monitoring.