Air quality bad in Mangaluru, Bengaluru and Mysuru, says Greenpeace report

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, Jan 30, 2022: A report prepared by Greenpeace India claims air pollution levels in three major cities - Mysuru, Bengaluru, and Mangaluru exceeds World Health Organisation (WHO) air quality parameters.

This report is based on the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)’s data.

Speaking to Media, Greenpeace India campaign manager Avinash Chanchal said the report has been prepared based on the air quality data from 20, November 2020 to 20, November 2021, obtained from CPCB’s official dashboard of Central Control Room for Air Quality Management.

"In Mysuru, PM 2.5 levels exceeded the WHO guidelines by four to five times while it is six to seven times more in Bengaluru and Mangaluru. Similarly, PM 10 levels in Bengaluru and Mangaluru exceeded the limit by three to four times while in Mysuru it is two to three times more compared to the limit prescribed by WHO", he said.

"The qualitative and quantitative analysis is carried out by using prescribed air quality standards as referred to by WHO and national ambient air quality (NAAQS)," he said.

According to the report, the primary contributors to the worsening air quality are fossil fuel-powered infrastructural development, industries, transport, waste burning, and construction activity.

"The long-term exposure to air pollution, even at low levels, shortens lives and has serious implications for public health. Thus, the city should take concrete steps to control air pollution and have a deadline to move towards the WHO guidelines before it is too late," said Avinash Chanchal.

According to activists, the need of the hour is more stringent measures to curb air pollution, especially pollution caused by vehicles and industries.

Clean Mysore Foundation treasurer Venkatesh Kharidi said after the first Covid-19 lockdown, air pollution increased in the city due to various reasons.

"Industrial air pollution is now unchecked as all permissions are issued online. Old vehicles are also allowed without a proper procedure. Last year, due to Covid-19, the number of saplings planted is also very less citing dearth of funds. All these contribute to the increase in air pollution" he said.