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National Clean Air Programme & Challenges

Published: 25th Apr, 2024

Context

The Indian government initiated the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in 2019 with the goal of reducing atmospheric Particulate Matter (PM) concentration by 20-30% by 2024, based on 2017 levels. However, this target was subsequently revised to a more ambitious goal of 40% reduction by 2026.

1: Dimension- Implementation Issues of NCAP
  • Under the programme, cities continuously violating annual PM levels in India need to prepare and implement annual Clean Air Action Plans (CAAPs).
  • Inconsistency: Tough most cities proactively submitted their CAAPs, their implementation has been inconsistent.
  • Implementation issue: On average, only 60% of the allocated funds have been used thus far, with 27% of cities spending less than 30% of their designated budgets.
  • Delayed approvals: Implementation delays hinder NCAP’s success, particularly delays in approvals from the competent authorities.
  • Lack of SOP: Furthermore, there is lack of standard operating procedures for the implementation process.
  • Other issues:
    • Absence of well-defined timelines create further delays
    • Bureaucratic red-tape and lingering doubts regarding the effectiveness of proposed mitigation measures
2: Dimension- Required Measures
  • There is need of swift implementation on the ground and focus on reducing bureaucratic red tape by utilising shared, standardised technical evaluations.
  • Prior budgeting and time management play crucial roles as NCAP funding is linked with the performance of cities (based on the annual average PM concentration reduction).
  • Technical feasibility, budgeting, and time estimates need to be part of the initial plans.

Fact Box: About NCAP

  • Launched in: 2019
  • Objective: to improve air quality in 131 cities (non-attainment cities and Million Plus Cities) in 24 States/UTs by engaging all stakeholders.
  • Target: The programme envisages to achieve reductions up to 40% or achievement of National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Particulate Matter10 (PM 10) concentrations by 2025-26.
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