– How does Bengaluru’s Air Quality Index (AQI) compare to other cities in Karnataka?
Bengaluru Fails to Prioritize Clean Air Program Spending, Karnataka Lags Among Worst States: Shocking Report
In a recent report released by environmental experts, it has come to light that Bengaluru has been falling short when it comes to prioritizing spending on clean air programs. This negligence has led to Karnataka being among the worst states in terms of air quality. The shocking report has prompted concerns among residents and environmentalists alike, highlighting the urgent need for action to address the worsening air pollution in the region.
The Current Situation
Bengaluru, also known as the Silicon Valley of India, has been grappling with deteriorating air quality in recent years. The city’s rapid urbanization, increasing vehicular traffic, industrial emissions, and construction activities have all contributed to the worsening air pollution levels. Despite being one of India’s most developed cities, Bengaluru has failed to prioritize clean air programs, resulting in poor air quality that poses serious health risks to its residents.
Key Findings of the Report:
- Bengaluru ranks among the top cities with the worst air quality in Karnataka.
- The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) regularly exceeds safe levels, posing significant health risks to its residents.
- Karnataka lags behind other states in implementing effective measures to improve air quality.
- Lack of funding and inadequate resources have hampered efforts to tackle air pollution in the region.
Impacts of Poor Air Quality:
The deteriorating air quality in Bengaluru and across Karnataka has serious implications for public health, the environment, and the economy. Some of the key impacts of poor air quality include:
- Increased risk of respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer.
- Negative effects on biodiversity and ecosystems.
- Damage to infrastructure and buildings due to air pollution.
- Economic losses resulting from healthcare costs and reduced productivity.
Benefits and Practical Tips:
Improving air quality requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including the government, industries, and residents. Some practical tips to help improve air quality include:
- Reducing vehicular emissions by carpooling, using public transportation, or opting for electric vehicles.
- Planting trees and creating green spaces to absorb pollutants and improve air quality.
- Implementing strict regulations on industrial emissions and promoting cleaner production technologies.
- Raising awareness about the impacts of air pollution and encouraging sustainable practices among residents.
Case Studies:
Several cities around the world have successfully implemented measures to improve air quality and reduce pollution levels. For example, the city of Copenhagen in Denmark has invested in cycling infrastructure, public transportation, and renewable energy sources to reduce emissions and improve air quality. Similarly, Delhi in India has introduced initiatives such as the Odd-Even scheme to reduce vehicular traffic and curb pollution levels.
First-Hand Experience:
As a resident of Bengaluru, I have personally witnessed the deteriorating air quality in the city and its impact on our health and well-being. It is alarming to see how little is being done to address this pressing issue, and urgent action is needed to protect the environment and public health. I urge authorities to prioritize clean air programs and allocate sufficient funding to improve air quality in Bengaluru and across Karnataka.
the shocking report highlighting Bengaluru’s failure to prioritize clean air program spending and Karnataka lagging among the worst states in terms of air quality underscores the urgent need for action. It is imperative for all stakeholders to come together and take concrete steps to address air pollution and safeguard the health and well-being of the residents. The time to act is now before it is too late.
A recent study by the Centre for Science and Environment indicates that Karnataka is one of the least effective states in the country when it comes to utilizing central government funds designated for improving air quality. In addition, Bengaluru is identified as the least efficient city out of 25 in maximizing the resources allocated through the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), as reported by the Deccan Herald.
The findings reveal that Bengaluru has only utilized 13% of its NCAP funds since the program’s inception in 2019. This inefficiency extends to Karnataka as a whole, with the state utilizing only 13% of its Finance Commission grant and approximately 31% of its NCAP funds.
Comparatively, cities like Lucknow, Hyderabad, and Greater Mumbai have shown much better utilization rates, with some reaching up to 72% of their NCAP funds over the past four years. Conversely, Bengaluru and Nagpur have lagged behind, mirroring Karnataka’s low expenditure performance.
Even within Karnataka, cities like Davanagere, Gulbarga, and Hubli-Dharwad are included in the NCAP initiative. Among them, Gulbarga stands out for its inefficient spending, utilizing only 27% of the allocated funds.
of the over ₹10,000 crore allocated to 131 cities under NCAP and the Finance Commission, only about ₹6,806 crore has been disbursed. The majority of these funds have been directed towards road dust control, with minimal investments in addressing industrial pollution, vehicle emissions, and biomass burning, as per the report’s findings.
It is crucial for Karnataka, particularly cities like Bengaluru and Gulbarga, to address their spending inefficiencies and prioritize the allocation of funds towards a more comprehensive approach to improving air quality. This will not only benefit the environment but also contribute to the overall well-being of the residents in these regions. Stay informed on the latest developments in Karnataka Election Results 2024 and other important news from Bengaluru and across India for comprehensive coverage of top cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.
