Current World Environment

The clean air plan in India involves a set of rules, policies, and initiatives targeted at improving the air quality and public health by way of decreasing emissions from various sources. The study aims to evaluate the impact of National Clean Air Program (NCAP) on lowering air pollution levels and improving public health outcomes in Kota city, Rajasthan, highlighting progress, challenges, and the need for sustained emission control efforts. Kota's selection for this study highlights its significance as an educational hub, attracting students from all over India. The rapid population growth and increased vehicle emissions in the city cause adverse impacts on air quality. Improving air quality will not only enhance the health of residents and students but also contribute to a more conducive learning environment. The action plan of NCAP involves enforcing the construction and demolition waste management rules 2016, implementing emission control measures like water sprinkling and covered transport for construction activities, and extensive campaigns against open burning of biomass and waste. It also includes regular checks on industrial emissions, proper waste collection and disposal, and mandatory green belt development in residential areas. It employs a mixed-method approach, combining air quality monitoring data collected from the Central and State Pollution Control Boards from 2014 to 2023. It also examines trends in key pollutants, including NO2, SO2, and PM10, and analyzes the effect of regulatory measures such as emission controls and waste management rules. The study reveals a decreasing trend in NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) levels in Kota city, Rajasthan from 35.35 µg/m³ to 29.90 µg/m³ during 2014 to 2023, showing a significant drop during the COVID-19 lockdown. Similarly, PM10 (particulate matter) levels peaked at 153.28 µg/m³ in 2018 but saw a significant reduction to104.80 µg/m³ by 2020, indicating an improvement in air quality. However, SO2 (sulfur dioxide) concentrations slightly increased in 2019-2023 compared to 2014-2018. The air quality index (AQI) improved modestly but frequently surpassed 100, indicating hazardous air quality for vulnerable populations. The study concludes that while the NCAP in India has significantly improved air quality, challenges remain, with NO2 levels rebounding post-COVID-19 lockdown and persistent high particulate matter levels. It is recommended to ensure stricter enforcement of emission control measures, enhanced monitoring systems, and public awareness campaigns. Future work should focus on the long-term health impacts of particulate matter and strategies to achieve sustained air quality improvements in high-risk regions.

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