• Industrial Pollution

Punjab Powers Ahead with ₹641-Crore Nabha Power Green Energy Project in Patiala

The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is setting new precedents in the field of clean energy. By making clean energy the keystone of the state's development, the government is protecting the environment and creating employment opportunities for millions of youth. To this end, Nabha Power Limited's (NPL) ₹641 crore power generation project is a shining star in Punjab's green revolution. This project will bring affordable, clean electricity and 500 jobs, ensuring a clean and prosperous future for Punjab. With recently launched initiatives, Punjab is rapidly progressing towards achieving clean energy capacity, which will ensure the state's economic strength and sustained growth. Nabha Power Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), has embarked on an ambitious plan to convert its 1,400 MW thermal power plant in Rajpura, Patiala, to a hybrid model with solar energy. This ₹641 crore project will integrate solar energy with a thermal plant, reducing pollution by 15 percent and protecting the environment. The project will create 500 new jobs, with priority given to local youth. The project will operate under a 25-year power purchase agreement with the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL), providing affordable and clean electricity to Punjab. The project will be commissioned by December 2025 and completed in phases by 2026, significantly increasing Punjab's renewable energy capacity. This Nabha Power project will significantly strengthen the state's industrial system. The Rajpura thermal plant already meets a significant portion of Punjab's electricity needs, providing 40 percent of its electricity needs during the off-peak season and 20 percent during the peak season. The integration of solar energy will further improve the plant's environmental sustainability. In 2025, the Central Government's Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) awarded NPL an award for environmental protection, demonstrating its green commitment. This project strengthens Punjab's clean energy initiatives, highlighting the strength of the country's domestic investment and Indian multinational companies.

• Down To Earth

भारत के स्मार्ट सिटी मानसून से निपटने में असफल हैं. हम बाढ़ के जाल तैयार कर रहे हैं

एक नए केंद्र सरकार के गठन के अगले साल कई वादे सामने आए. उनमें से एक था स्मार्ट सिटीज़ बनाना, एक महत्वाकांक्षी वादा जो शुरू होने को था. स्मार्ट सिटीज़ मिशन, भारत सरकार की एक प्रमुख योजना, सतत और समावेशी शहरी विकास को बढ़ावा देने के लिए शुरू की गई थी. इसका लक्ष्य तकनीक, नवाचार और बेहतर अवसंरचना पर ध्यान देकर निवासियों की जीवन गुणवत्ता को बढ़ाना था. यह योजना सौ चुनी हुई शहरों में लागू की गई. इन शहरों की ज़रूरत इसलिए बढ़ी क्योंकि ग्रामीण इलाकों से लोग ज्यादा आ रहे थे। इसके पीछे मुख्य वजह थी भारत में 1991 में हुए आर्थिक सुधार — उदारीकरण, निजीकरण और वैश्वीकरण (LPG). इन्हें उस समय के प्रधानमंत्री पी. वी. नरसिम्हा राव और वित्त मंत्री मनमोहन सिंह ने पेश किया था. स्टैटिस्टिक्स बताते हैं कि शहरी जनसंख्या 2031 तक 600 मिलियन बढ़ने का अनुमान है. भारत सरकार द्वारा शहरी अवसंरचना और सेवाओं का विश्लेषण करने के लिए बनाई गई उच्च-स्तरीय विशेषज्ञ समिति ने कहा कि 2050 तक शहरी हिस्सा 75 प्रतिशत तक बढ़ जाएगा. इस तेज़ी से बढ़ती शहरी जनसंख्या ने स्मार्ट तकनीकों के साथ शहरी अवसंरचना सुधारना महत्वपूर्ण बना दिया है. इस प्रकार स्मार्ट सिटीज़ के विकास में योगदान हुआ. इन वादों के बीच सवाल उठता है: स्मार्ट सिटी क्या है? इसका विज़न क्या है? इसने इस विचार को परिभाषित करने और व्यक्त करने के लिए बहस और विचार-विमर्श को जन्म दिया. स्मार्ट सिटी को इस तरह समझाया गया है कि यह एक शहरी वातावरण है जिसमें डेटा क्लेक्शन के लिए कई इलेक्ट्रॉनिक सिस्टम का उपयोग किया जाता है. इसका उद्देश्य शहरी प्रबंधन को सुधारना, संसाधनों के संगठन को बेहतर बनाना और आर्थिक सेवाओं को लोगों तक पहुंचाना है. संग्रहित डेटा का उपयोग शहर के संचालन को बेहतर बनाने के लिए किया जाता है. इस अवधारणा को दुनिया के विभिन्न हिस्सों में लागू किया जा चुका है. अन्य विद्वानों ने स्मार्ट सिटी को तकनीकी दृष्टिकोण से परिभाषित किया. उन्होंने बताया कि ऐसे शहर वायरलेस सेंसर, स्मार्ट मीटर, स्मार्ट वाहन, स्मार्टफोन, मोबाइल नेटवर्क और डेटा स्टोरेज जैसे उपकरणों का उपयोग करते हैं. लेकिन क्या केवल ये तकनीकी बदलाव भारत की शहरी समस्याओं को हल कर सकते हैं? या इन्हें स्थानीय जरूरतों और लंबे समय से चली आ रही संरचनात्मक समस्याओं के अनुसार समायोजित करना होगा। क्या एक ही उपाय सभी के लिए सही होगा? इतने स्मार्ट शहर नहीं बड़े योजना बनाने के बावजूद, स्मार्ट सिटीज़ मिशन के कार्यान्वयन में गहरे संरचनात्मक और प्रशासनिक अंतर दिखाई देते हैं. गुरुग्राम में, कुछ घंटे की बारिश ही मुख्य सड़कों को जाम कर देती है और किलोमीटर लंबी ट्रैफिक जाम पैदा कर देती है. यह एक ऐसा शहर है जिसमें राष्ट्रीय मिशन के तहत कई “स्मार्ट” प्रोजेक्ट्स हैं. यह मूलभूत विरोधाभास है: जबकि स्मार्ट सिटी योजनाएं सेंसर, वाई-फाई ज़ोन और डेटा एनालिटिक्स पर जोर देती हैं, बुनियादी शहरी योजना और ड्रेनेज अवसंरचना की उपेक्षा की गई है. जैसा कि एक वायरल X पोस्ट में सही कहा गया: 25 सितंबर, 2025 को @YeThikKarkeDikhao हैंडल ने लिखा—“₹1.5 लाख करोड़ भारत के ‘स्मार्ट सिटीज़ मिशन’ में डाले गए. फिर भी टियर-1 शहरों—मुंबई, गुरुग्राम, बेंगलुरु—की सड़कें खराब हैं. केवल जो SMART हुआ? ठेकेदार, नेता और बाबुओं के बैंक अकाउंट.” एक गहरा शहरी संकट शहरी बाढ़, इस विफलता का सबसे स्पष्ट रूप, अब हर साल होने वाली आपदा बन गई है. सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट (CSE) का अनुमान है कि भारत के 60 प्रतिशत से अधिक शहर बाढ़ के प्रति संवेदनशील हैं. कई अलर्ट सिस्टम, इंटीग्रेटेड कमांड सेंटर और “स्मार्ट” फ्लड अलर्ट होने के बावजूद, इसके मूल कारण, जैसे कि वेटलैंड का अतिक्रमण, खराब ड्रेनेज डिज़ाइन और निर्माण में भ्रष्टाचार, आज भी बने हुए हैं. 2023 में दिल्ली में यमुना के तटबंध टूटने से बाढ़ आई और हजारों लोग विस्थापित हुए, जबकि 2021 में मुंबई में चार दशकों की सबसे भारी बारिश ने परिवहन नेटवर्क को बंद कर दिया. वाराणसी और सूरत जैसे छोटे शहरों में भी इसी तरह की आपदा की खबरें आईं. एक यूज़र ने X पर लिखा: अक्टूबर 2025 को @singhrahulkumar ने लिखा, “तीन दिन पहले ही स्मार्ट सिटी (कहने के लिए) वाराणसी में बारिश हुई. अनगिनत गड्ढों ने स्थिति और खराब कर दी.” एक अन्य ट्वीट में लिखा: 24 जून, 2025 को @Polytikles ने लिखा— “पहली अंडरवॉटर सिटी का नज़ारा. गुजरात मॉडल स्मार्ट सिटी – सूरत की हालत, बारिश के तुरंत बाद.” ये पोस्ट जनता की बढ़ती नाराज़गी को दर्शाते हैं: जब एक ही बारिश शहरों को पैरालाइज कर देती है, जो “स्मार्ट” होने का दावा करते हैं, तो विफलता प्रकृति में नहीं बल्कि योजना में है. सच यह है कि हम अभी भी 1800 के दशक में डिज़ाइन किए गए ड्रेनेज सिस्टम का इस्तेमाल कर रहे हैं, जब बारिश धीरे-धीरे और कम मात्रा में आती थी. आज के मानसून पुराने सिस्टम की क्षमता से दोगुनी बारिश लाते हैं. और भी बुरा यह है कि हमने शहर के प्राकृतिक सांस लेने वाले स्थानों को बंद कर दिया है. हमने फ्लडप्लेन पर निर्माण कर दिया, हर जगह इमारतें घुसा दीं, और कचरा बची हुई ड्रेनों को जाम कर देता है. परिणाम? पानी का कोई रास्ता नहीं बचा, वह हमारे घरों, सड़कों और जीवन में प्रवेश कर जाता है. हम केवल स्मार्ट शहर नहीं बना रहे, हम बाढ़ जाल बना रहे हैं. हर मानसून में वही कहानी दोहराई जाती है: पंप निकाले जाते हैं, स्कूल बंद होते हैं, अधिकारी जाम हुए ड्रेनों को साफ करने दौड़ते हैं. ये केवल अस्थायी समाधान हैं, असली सुधार नहीं. हमें सही प्रतिक्रिया केंद्र चाहिए, लेकिन साथ ही हमें केवल प्रतिक्रिया देने की बजाय योजना बनाना शुरू करना होगा. प्रतिक्रिया केंद्र प्रबंधन में मदद करते हैं, लेकिन बाढ़ को रोक नहीं सकते. इसका मतलब है वास्तविक समय में फ्लड अलर्ट, लोगों के लिए शिकायत करने के खुले चैनल, और सबसे महत्वपूर्ण, जब अवसंरचना फेल हो तो ठेकेदारों को जवाबदेह ठहराना. लेकिन यह सब तब भी काम नहीं करेगा अगर हम प्रकृति की अनदेखी करते रहेंगे. झीलें, वेटलैंड और पुराने तूफ़ानी नाले बाढ़ का पानी अवशोषित करने के लिए होते हैं. हमने उन्हें कंक्रीट के नीचे दबा दिया. हमें उन्हें वापस लाना होगा. अनदेखी की गई बुनियादी बातें: सड़कें, नालियां और परिवहन स्मार्ट सिटी मिशन ने डिजिटल समाधानों को भौतिक अवसंरचना पर प्राथमिकता दी है. लेकिन कोई भी संख्या में सेंसर या कंट्रोल रूम टूटती सड़कों और पुराने ड्रेनेज नेटवर्क की कमी को पूरा नहीं कर सकते. गोवा की राजधानी पणजी, जो स्मार्ट सिटी मिशन के तहत है, इसका उदाहरण है. एक निवासी ने लिखा: 30 अगस्त, 2025 को @mohitlaws ने लिखा, “यह चांद की सतह नहीं है. यह गोवा की राजधानी पणजी है. यहां गड्ढे चांद के क्रेटरों से भी बड़े हैं. स्मार्ट सिटी इस सदी का सबसे बड़ा जुमला है.” मुंबई में, 2024 के आंकड़ों के अनुसार, ब्रिहन्मुम्बई नगर निगम (BMC) ने एक ही मानसून में 15,000 से अधिक गड्ढों की रिपोर्ट दर्ज की, जबकि सड़कों की मरम्मत के लिए भारी राशि आवंटित की गई थी. इस बीच, चेन्नई में लंबे समय से वादे किए गए तूफ़ानी जल अपग्रेड आधे अधूरे हैं. गुरुग्राम की मास्टर ड्रेनेज योजना 2016 से लागू नहीं हुई है. सार्वजनिक परिवहन, जो स्मार्ट शहरी जीवन का एक और स्तंभ है, भी उपेक्षित है. लखनऊ और भोपाल जैसे शहरों में आधी बनी मेट्रो लाइनें सीमित कनेक्टिविटी के साथ चल रही हैं, जबकि बसें भीड़भाड़ वाली और भरोसेमंद नहीं हैं. शहर में सब तरह के परिवहन को जोड़ने का वादा लगभग पूरी तरह असफल रहा है. हमें तकनीक से ज़्यादा की ज़रूरत है “स्मार्ट” का मतलब सिर्फ़ डिजिटल नहीं होता. असली समझदारी का मतलब है सोच-समझकर शहर की योजना बनाना, सिर्फ़ दिखावटी डैशबोर्ड नहीं. सड़कों से पानी आसानी से निकलना चाहिए. सार्वजनिक परिवहन तूफ़ान में भी काम करना चाहिए. शहर केवल आबादी के अनुमान के लिए नहीं, बल्कि जलवायु बदलाव को ध्यान में रखकर बनाए जाने चाहिए. टोक्यो या सिंगापुर जैसे शहरों को देखिए: उन्होंने बाढ़ का पानी हटाने के लिए बड़े अंडरग्राउंड टनल बनाए हैं. वे डेटा का इस्तेमाल करते हैं, लेकिन प्राकृतिक परिवेश का भी सम्मान करते हैं. यही उन्हें मजबूत बनाता है. भारत में हमने तकनीक पर ज़्यादा ध्यान दिया और मूलभूत चीज़ों पर कम. वर्ल्ड बैंक चेतावनी देता है कि 2036 तक अगर हम रास्ता नहीं बदलते, तो भारत को शहरी अवसंरचना में 840 बिलियन डॉलर का अंतर होगा. यह सिर्फ़ एक संख्या नहीं, बल्कि एक चेतावनी है. अब क्या? स्मार्ट सिटी मिशन बड़े वादों के साथ शुरू हुआ था. एक दशक बाद, इसके फटे हुए पहलू नजरअंदाज करना मुश्किल है, खासकर जब उनमें बारिश का पानी भर जाता है. नागरिक सही सवाल पूछ रहे हैं: वह शहर कितना स्मार्ट है जो कुछ ही घंटों में बाढ़ में डूब जाए? हमें सिर्फ़ चमकदार कंट्रोल रूम और डैशबोर्ड नहीं चाहिए. हमें ऐसे शहर चाहिए जो तूफ़ान में भी काम करें. इसका मतलब है दीर्घकालिक निवेश, बेहतर योजना और हां, समुदाय की भागीदारी. लोगों को समाधान का हिस्सा बनना होगा. यदि स्मार्ट सिटी मिशन के उद्देश्यों को पूरा करने के लिए सच्ची प्रतिबद्धता और सक्रिय समुदाय की भागीदारी नहीं होगी, तो मानसून में बाढ़ एक बार-बार होने वाली आपदा बनी रहेगी. जब तक भारत के शहर तकनीक बनाने से पहले मजबूती बनाना नहीं सीखते, स्मार्ट सिटी मिशन सिर्फ़ एक चमकदार मुखौटा बनेगा, जहां एक ही बारिश यह दिखा सकती है कि हमने वास्तव में ‘स्मार्ट सिटी’ बनाई है या सिर्फ़ स्मार्ट बाढ़ वाले इलाके.

• Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

Delhi’s Air Quality Begins To Deteriorate Ahead Of Winters, Authorities Likely To Announce GRAP Restrictions Soon

As Diwali approaches, the air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) has begun to deteriorate, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) showing a rising trend. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in Delhi stood at 189, falling in the "moderate" category, while several areas recorded AQI levels above 200, categorised as "poor". What Does Air Quality Bulletin Say The CPCB's air quality bulletin revealed that areas like Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of over 300, falling in the "very poor" category. Other NCR cities also witnessed a rise in AQI levels, with Faridabad at 117, Ghaziabad at 204, Greater Noida at 180, Gurugram at 191, and Noida at 198. Delhi AQI Scares Residents The Air Quality Early Warning System forecast suggests that the air quality may further deteriorate, reaching the "poor" category by Wednesday and remaining in the "poor" to "very poor" category for the next six days. The decrease in wind speed and temperature is expected to contribute to the worsening air quality. Experts Hint At Worsening Situation Experts warn that the situation may worsen further, with the Centre for Science and Environment's executive director, Anumita Roy Chowdhury, emphasising the need for robust preventive measures and source-wise systemic action. Former head of CPCB's air laboratory, Deepankar Saha, attributed the deteriorating air quality to the end of the monsoon season and the resulting unfavourable meteorological conditions.

• Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

Smog Stories: What Is Vehicular Pollution And How Has It Become Delhi’s Biggest Source Of Air Pollution?

As winter is approaching, the biggest challenge that Delhi faces is to keep the air pollution under control and air breathable, a goal that the national capital fails to achieve each year. The air quality starts depleting around October and attains a hazardous level after Diwali. There are several factors that contribute to poor air quality in Delhi. While some of them are based outside its territory, given its geography and economic positioning, others are the national capital's own factors. Among Delhi's local pollution sources, the biggest contributor is vehicular pollution. What is vehicular pollution, and what are its pollutants? The vehicular pollution refers to the air pollution caused by the emissions from vehicles like buses, trucks, motorcycles and cars, among other motor-powered transportation. In vehicular pollution, the pollutants that are emitted are: -Carbon Monoxide (CO): The poisonous gas reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood. -Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): Contributes in global warming. -Nitrogen Oxide (NOₓ): NOₓ causes respiratory problems and contributes to smog and acid rain. -Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10): These are the tiny particles that can enter the lungs and cause diseases like asthma, bronchitis, etc. -Sulfur dioxide (SO₂): Like NOₓ, it can also cause respiratory issues and acid rain. -Hydrocarbons and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Some of them contribute to ground-level ozone, which forms the major component of the smog. How big a contributor is vehicular pollution for Delhi? The factors that cause depletion of the air quality in Delhi are several, but among the local sources, vehicular pollution's contribution to Delhi's PM 2.5 concentration is 51.5 per cent. According to a report by the Centre of Science and Environment (CSE), the local contributors to PM 2.5 concentration made up 30.34 per cent between October 22 to November 3, last year. Among that, 51.5 per cent is by vehicular pollution, followed by residential pollution at 13.2, and local and peripheral industrial pollution at 11.1 per cent.

• Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

Diwali and Delhi’s Air Pollution Crisis: Balancing Festivity and Environmental Responsibility

The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) notes that air pollution shortens the average life expectancy in Delhi by up to 11.9 years. Beyond humans, the smog also harms animals, reduces photosynthesis in plants, and accelerates environmental degradation. Diwali, the “Festival of Lights,” is celebrated with grandeur across India to mark the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. Families decorate homes with diyas, candles, and lights, exchange sweets and gifts, and pray to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity. However, amid this joyous spirit, one tradition—bursting firecrackers—has increasingly come under scrutiny, particularly in Delhi, where it worsens one of the world’s most severe air pollution crises. Delhi’s Air Quality: A Year-Round Challenge Delhi consistently ranks among the most polluted capitals globally. According to the World Air Quality Report 2023 by IQAir, Delhi retained its position as the world’s most polluted capital for the fourth consecutive year, with an average PM2.5 level of 92.6 µg/m³, nearly 18 times higher than the WHO’s safe limit. The city’s air quality deteriorates each winter due to multiple factors—vehicle emissions, construction dust, industrial discharge, and stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana. During late October and November, temperature inversion and calm winds trap pollutants close to the surface, forming dense smog. When Diwali fireworks add bursts of particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide to the mix, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) often shoots beyond 500, falling into the “severe” or “hazardous” category. The Health and Environmental Impact The consequences are immediate and widespread. After Diwali night, hospitals across Delhi-NCR report a 25–30% spike in respiratory and cardiac cases, according to data from the Safdarjung and LNJP hospitals. Children, the elderly, and those with asthma or heart disease are the worst affected. Even healthy individuals experience eye irritation, coughing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure to high PM2.5 levels can lead to chronic bronchitis, reduced lung function, and increased risk of heart attack and stroke. The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) notes that air pollution shortens the average life expectancy in Delhi by up to 11.9 years. Beyond humans, the smog also harms animals, reduces photosynthesis in plants, and accelerates environmental degradation. Measures and Challenges in Implementation Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal (NGT) have repeatedly banned the sale and use of conventional firecrackers in Delhi and adjoining areas. “Green crackers,” which emit about 30% less particulate matter and noise, have been introduced, but enforcement remains inconsistent. Despite restrictions, local authorities seized over 1,200 kg of illegal firecrackers in Delhi ahead of Diwali 2024, reflecting both public resistance and enforcement challenges. Towards an Eco-Friendly Diwali Public awareness is slowly shifting. Schools, NGOs, and media campaigns have successfully encouraged many to opt for eco-friendly Diwali celebrations—lighting diyas instead of fireworks, using green crackers, planting trees, or donating to underprivileged families. Social media movements like #CleanAirDiwali and #SayNoToCrackers are gaining traction among the youth. A Festival That Truly Spreads Light The essence of Diwali lies in illumination, not pollution. A collective move toward sustainable celebration can help Delhi breathe easier and ensure that future generations inherit not just a tradition of lights, but a cleaner, healthier environment. A green and mindful Diwali can truly reflect the victory of light over darkness—in every sense.

• Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

COlevels 58 times above safe limitin Gurgaon, PM10 alarming too

Gurgaon: Residents are forced to breathe in a toxic mix of coarse dust and carbon monoxide. Data from Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) shows that PM10 and CO have been the most prominent pollutants in the city since the start of Oct. Between Oct 1 and 12, PM10 levels consistently stayed above the safe daily limit of 60 µg/m³ , hovering between 101 and 220 µg/m³. PM10 levels were about 1.7 to 3.7 times higher than the permissible daily limit. CO levels hovered between 68 µg/m³ and 98 µg/m³ — over 40 to 58 times higher than the permissible limit of 1.7 µg/m³. Residents said the air has turned hazy over the past few evenings. Rahul Arora, a resident of Sector 86, said, "Garbage burning is still happening near our sector despite complaints. You can smell the smoke around sunset." A Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) official said, "PM10 is a direct outcome of road dust and ongoing construction, while CO levels rise with peakhour traffic and open waste burning. The current weather conditions are only amplifying both." PM10 particles — about one-seventh the width of a human hair — can irritate the eyes, nose and throat and worsen chronic respiratory diseases. CO exposure, even at moderate levels, can cause headaches, dizziness and fatigue. Prolonged exposure interferes with oxygen transport in the blood, which can be lifethreatening for vulnerable groups. According to the latest air quality and weather observations by Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, clear skies and weak winds over Delhi-NCR have created unfavourable conditions for pollutant dispersion. Air quality across Delhi-NCR, including Gurgaon, is likely to remain in the ‘poor' category till at least Oct 14, it said. While Gurgaon's air quality improved slightly on Sunday, the AQI dropped to 178 (‘moderate') from 220 (‘poor') a day earlier. Experts said the next few weeks are crucial as wind speeds dip and temperatures fall further. "Gurgaon's air typically turns toxic as winter sets in. Without immediate control on construction dust, traffic emissions and waste burning, PM10 and CO will push AQI levels back to the ‘very poor' zone soon, " research associate at Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) Shubhansh Tiwari said, adding, "Carbon monoxide is especially dangerous because it's invisible — it binds with haemoglobin far more efficiently than oxygen, silently cutting off oxygen supply to vital organs." Winds were predominantly from the west and southwest, blowing at 8–14 kmph, slowing further during night hours. The forecast for Oct 11–14 indicates similar weather: clear skies, below-normal temperatures and winds between 8 and 15kmph. The mixing depth — the vertical layer that allows pollutants to disperse — is expected to shrink from 2,300 metres on Oct 11 to 1,950 metres on Oct 13.

• Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

दिल्ली में ठंड से पहले ही हवा में लौट आया ज़हर, कई इलाकों में AQI 200 पार, एक्सपर्ट्स ने क्या कहा?

दिल्ली की हर साल की वही कहानी एक बार फिर दोहराई जा रही है। ठंड की आहट के साथ राजधानी में प्रदूषण (Pollution) ने भी अपने तेवर दिखाने शुरू कर दिए हैं। शनिवार को शहर के कई इलाकों में एयर क्वालिटी इंडेक्स (AQI) 200 के पार पहुंच गया, जो ‘खराब’ श्रेणी (Poor Category) में आता है। यह स्थिति नई बनी दिल्ली सरकार के लिए भी एक बड़ी परीक्षा मानी जा रही है, क्योंकि यह सरकार के कार्यकाल का पहला सर्दियों का मौसम है जब दिल्ली की हवा सबसे ज्यादा जहरीली होती है। दिल्ली में आखिरी बार हवा की गुणवत्ता 11 जून को खराब हुई थी, जब AQI 245 दर्ज किया गया था। उस समय मॉनसून के आगमन के कारण बाद में हवा में सुधार आया था और बारिश ने प्रदूषण को टिकने नहीं दिया था। लेकिन अब बारिश के थमते ही धूल, धुआं और पराली का धुआं फिर से हवा में घुलने लगा है। दिल्ली में ठंड के आगमन से पहले ही प्रदूषण के स्तर में तेजी से बढ़ोतरी हो रही है। पृथ्वी विज्ञान मंत्रालय के तहत काम करने वाली वायु गुणवत्ता प्रारंभिक चेतावनी प्रणाली (EWS) ने चेतावनी दी है कि रविवार से 14 अक्टूबर तक राजधानी की हवा की गुणवत्ता ‘खराब’ (Poor) श्रेणी में बनी रहने की संभावना है। हवा की गुणवत्ता में गिरावट को देखते हुए वायु गुणवत्ता प्रबंधन आयोग (CAQM) ने शनिवार को एक समीक्षा बैठक की। सूत्रों के मुताबिक, बैठक में हालात की विस्तार से समीक्षा की गई, लेकिन आयोग ने अभी ग्रेडेड रिस्पांस एक्शन प्लान (GRAP) के पहले चरण (Stage I) को लागू न करने का फैसला किया है, क्योंकि शनिवार तक औसत AQI ‘खराब’ स्तर तक नहीं पहुंचा था। वायु गुणवत्ता प्रबंधन आयोग (CAQM) ने शनिवार को स्थिति की समीक्षा की और बताया कि आयोग रविवार को फिर से वायु गुणवत्ता की स्थिति का आकलन करेगा। भारतीय कृषि अनुसंधान संस्थान (IARI) द्वारा संकलित आंकड़ों के अनुसार, शनिवार को छह राज्यों में कुल 64 पराली जलाने की घटनाएं सैटेलाइट्स के माध्यम से दर्ज की गईं। इनमें से 42 उत्तर प्रदेश, 14 पंजाब, 6 मध्य प्रदेश, और हरियाणा व राजस्थान में एक-एक घटना दर्ज की गई। विशेषज्ञों ने बताया कि भले ही उत्तरी भारत में पराली जलाना शुरू हो गया है, लेकिन दिल्ली की हवा की गुणवत्ता पर इसका फिलहाल कोई बड़ा प्रभाव नहीं पड़ा है। मौसम विशेषज्ञों का मानना है कि आने वाले दिनों में हवा की दिशा और गति पर निर्भर करेगा कि यह प्रदूषण किस हद तक दिल्ली की ओर बढ़ता है। फिलहाल आयोग ने GRAP का पहला चरण (Stage I) लागू न करने का निर्णय बरकरार रखा है, लेकिन स्थिति बिगड़ने पर इसे तुरंत लागू करने की तैयारी है। दिल्ली में बढ़ते वायु प्रदूषण के बीच निर्णय समर्थन प्रणाली (Decision Support System – DSS) के ताज़ा आंकड़ों से पता चला है कि फिलहाल दिल्ली की खराब होती हवा के लिए पराली जलाना मुख्य कारण नहीं है। DSS के अनुसार, शुक्रवार को पराली जलाने की हिस्सेदारी केवल 0.34% रही, यानी दिल्ली के प्रदूषण पर इसका प्रभाव बेहद मामूली है। रिपोर्ट में कहा गया है कि शनिवार को प्रदूषण में सबसे बड़ा योगदान परिवहन क्षेत्र (Transport Sector) का रहा, जो कुल 19.1% दर्ज किया गया। इसके अलावा, सोनीपत से 10.8% उत्सर्जन, जबकि झज्जर और दिल्ली के आवासीय इलाकों से 4.8% प्रदूषण दर्ज किया गया। इस पर चिंता जताते हुए सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट (CSE) की कार्यकारी निदेशक (अनुसंधान एवं वकालत) अनुमिता रॉयचौधरी ने कहा कि “हम एक बार फिर उस दौर में प्रवेश कर रहे हैं जहां प्रदूषण की स्थिति आपातकाल जैसी हो जाती है।” उन्होंने कहा कि आने वाली सर्दियों में प्रदूषण कितना गंभीर होगा, यह देखना बाकी है, लेकिन फिलहाल जो रुझान सामने आ रहे हैं, वे चिंताजनक हैं। अनुमिता रॉयचौधरी ने जोर देकर कहा कि “वायु गुणवत्ता में लगातार सुधार के लिए अब मजबूत निवारक कदमों और हर स्रोत के हिसाब से व्यवस्थित कार्रवाई की जरूरत है।” उन्होंने सुझाव दिया कि सरकारों को परिवहन, औद्योगिक उत्सर्जन, निर्माण कार्य और कचरा जलाने जैसे स्रोतों पर अलग-अलग रणनीतियां बनाकर सिस्टमेटिक और दीर्घकालिक समाधान लागू करने होंगे, ताकि दिल्ली और आसपास के क्षेत्रों में हर साल दोहराए जाने वाले प्रदूषण संकट को स्थायी रूप से कम किया जा सके।

• Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

Delhi’s air quality likely to slip into ‘poor’ category soon

Delhi's air quality worsened on Saturday, reaching almost close to the ‘poor' category. At 4 pm, the (AQI) was 199—at the extreme end of the ‘moderate' range — according to Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) 24-hour average daily bulletin. The city last recorded a ‘poor' air quality day on June 11, with an AQI of 245, prior to the arrival of the Southwest monsoon. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi (EWS), which functions under the union ministry of earth sciences, has stated that city's air quality is likely to remain in the ‘poor' category from Sunday till Oct 14. Experts said that efforts should be intensified to reduce emissions. Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director, research and advocacy, Centre for Science and Environment, said, "We are entering the season of pollution emergency action once again. How severely polluted this winter will be is yet to be seen. W

• Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

As temperature dips,NCR’s air quality slips to ‘poor’too

Noida: After a week of clear skies and rain that kept pollution levels in check, air quality in Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad worsened sharply over the weekend as temperatures dipped, trapping pollutants close to the ground. Experts have urged authorities to intensify emission-control measures. Anumita Roychowdhury of the Centre for Science and Environment said stronger, source-specific preventive action is needed ahead of the pollution season. Former CPCB scientist Dipankar Saha added that weakening meteorological conditions after the monsoon trap emissions near the ground, worsening air across the Indo-Gangetic plains.

• Director General Office

Green Crackers: Less Toxic, But Still a Choking Hazard for Delhi’s Air This Diwali

“They’re better, not best—think diet soda with sugar,” quipped environmentalist Sunita Narain. Last Diwali, green variants correlated with 15% more respiratory cases in hospitals. As Diwali 2025 approaches, Delhi’s battle against air pollution intensifies with the rise of “green crackers”—touted as low-emission alternatives. But a new study on October 11 reveals they’re far from harmless, still contributing to the toxic smog that chokes the city, urging a rethink on festive traditions. The Green Facade Cracked Mandated by the Supreme Court since 2018, green crackers reduce barium nitrate by 30% and shell size by 20%, cutting PM10 emissions marginally. Yet, research from IIT Delhi shows they elevate AQI by 40-50 points during bursts, releasing ammonia and particulate matter that irritate lungs. “They’re better, not best—think diet soda with sugar,” quipped environmentalist Sunita Narain. Last Diwali, green variants correlated with 15% more respiratory cases in hospitals. Health Toll and City Struggles Delhi’s winter smog, already dire from stubble burning, sees green crackers add fuel to the fire—literally. Vulnerable groups like kids and asthmatics face heightened risks of bronchitis and heart strain. The CAQM has imposed timed bursts, but enforcement lags.Buy vitamins and supplements Greener Alternatives? Experts advocate drone shows, community lasers, and oil lamps over fireworks. “Celebrate light, not smoke,” campaigns the Green Peace NGO. With AQI hovering at 250 today, will Delhiites choose health over habit?

• Sustainable Food Systems

India Broom And Mop Market Size, Growth, and Forecast 2025-2033

According to the Centre for Science and Environment, 60-70% of cleaning products sold in India don't disclose their chemical compositions, which poses potential health and environmental risks. According to IMARC Group's latest research publication, "India Broom and Mop Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecast by Product Type, Distribution Channel, Region, and Company, 2025-2033", the India broom and mop market size reached USD 0.13 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, the market is expected to reach USD 0.20 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.80% during 2025-2033. This detailed analysis primarily encompasses industry size, business trends, market share, key growth factors, and regional forecasts. The report offers a comprehensive overview and integrates research findings, market assessments, and data from different sources. It also includes pivotal market dynamics like drivers and challenges, while also highlighting growth opportunities, financial insights, technological improvements, emerging trends, and innovations. Besides this, the report provides regional market evaluation, along with a competitive landscape analysis. Growth Factors in the India Broom and Mop Market ● Rising Health Consciousness and Hygiene Standards Driving Demand India's broom and mop market is experiencing a fundamental shift as consumers become increasingly aware of cleanliness and its direct connection to health. The numbers tell a compelling story about changing priorities. According to the Centre for Science and Environment, 60-70% of cleaning products sold in India don't disclose their chemical compositions, which poses potential health and environmental risks. This revelation has sparked a growing movement toward transparency and safer cleaning alternatives. What's particularly interesting is how hygiene consciousness has moved beyond just urban metros-it's now spreading across tier-2 and tier-3 cities as well. Families are paying closer attention to indoor air quality, especially after spending more time at home. The average Indian household generates around 500 grams of plastic waste every month just from cleaning materials alone, which has prompted many consumers to rethink their cleaning product choices. This awareness isn't just about personal health anymore; it's about creating healthier living environments for children and elderly family members who are more vulnerable to allergens and chemical exposure. The shift is visible in how people shop-consumers are now reading labels, asking questions about materials used, and actively seeking products that clean effectively without leaving behind chemical residues. Traditional cleaning tools are being reevaluated through this new lens of health-consciousness, creating opportunities for manufacturers who can deliver on both cleaning performance and safety credentials. ● Growing Preference for Eco-Friendly and Chemical-Free Cleaning Products The environmental consciousness sweeping through Indian consumers is reshaping the broom and mop market in significant ways. Natural fiber cleaning tools made from bamboo, cotton, and jute are finding increased acceptance as people look for genuine alternatives to synthetic products. This trend reflects a broader shift in consumer values-people want products that work well but don't come with hidden environmental or health costs. The interesting thing is that eco-friendly doesn't mean compromising on performance anymore. Modern natural fiber brooms and mops are engineered to deliver cleaning efficiency that rivals synthetic alternatives, making the choice easier for consumers who were previously hesitant. Urban consumers, particularly younger professionals and families with children, are leading this charge toward greener cleaning solutions. They're willing to invest in products that align with their values about sustainability and environmental responsibility. The rural market is showing similar patterns, though driven by different factors-natural fiber products often cost less and have better durability, making them economically attractive in addition to being environmentally sound. What makes this shift sustainable is that it's not just a passing trend-it's rooted in genuine concerns about the chemical load in our homes and the environmental impact of plastic-heavy cleaning products. Manufacturers who can communicate the benefits of natural materials while delivering consistent quality are finding receptive audiences across income segments and geographic locations. ● Technological Innovation Making Cleaning More Efficient and User-Friendly The Indian broom and mop market is witnessing a quiet revolution through technological advancement and thoughtful product design. Traditional cleaning tools are being reimagined with features that make the actual work of cleaning easier and more effective. Microfiber mops have gained significant traction because they genuinely perform better-they pick up more dirt, trap dust more effectively, and are easier to clean and maintain compared to conventional cotton mops. The innovation extends beyond just materials; spray mops that let users dispense cleaning solution directly onto floors have become popular in both homes and commercial spaces because they save time and reduce the mess associated with bucket-and-mop systems. Ergonomic design improvements are addressing a real pain point-literally. Brooms and mops with better handle designs, adjustable heights, and weight distribution that reduces strain are finding ready buyers, especially among older consumers and professional cleaning services who use these tools for extended periods. What's driving adoption of these advanced products is that they deliver tangible benefits-cleaning gets done faster, with less physical effort, and often with better results. The pricing of innovative products has also become more accessible as manufacturing scales up and competition increases. E-commerce platforms play a crucial role here, providing detailed product information, comparison capabilities, and customer reviews that help buyers make informed decisions about investing in better cleaning tools. This technological evolution isn't just about adding features-it's about genuinely solving problems that users face during regular cleaning tasks. ● E-Commerce Expansion Opening New Distribution Channels The growth of online retail has transformed how Indians purchase brooms and mops, creating unprecedented market access and consumer choice. Digital commerce platforms are doing more than just facilitating transactions-they're educating consumers, showcasing product varieties that might not be available in local stores, and making comparison shopping effortless. The numbers reveal the scale of this shift: online buyers in tier-2 and tier-3 cities increased from 46% in financial year 2019-20 to 56% in FY24, with projections pointing toward 64% by FY30. This expansion is particularly significant for the cleaning products category because it overcomes traditional distribution challenges. Rural and semi-urban consumers now have access to the same product range that was previously available only in major cities. E-commerce giants like Amazon and Flipkart stock extensive varieties of brooms and mops, from basic models to advanced microfiber and spray mop systems. Customer reviews provide social proof that helps hesitant buyers make purchase decisions, while competitive pricing ensures value for money. Home delivery solves the practical problem of transporting bulky cleaning tools, which was a genuine barrier for many consumers who relied on two-wheelers for transportation. The convenience factor can't be overstated-busy professionals can order cleaning supplies during lunch breaks and have them delivered by evening. Online-exclusive brands have also emerged, offering innovative products at competitive prices by eliminating traditional retail margins. This channel expansion is democratizing access to quality cleaning tools, breaking down the geographic and economic barriers that previously limited consumer choices in this category. Key Trends in the India Broom and Mop Market ● Regional Distribution Patterns Reflecting Varied Consumer Preferences The India broom and mop market shows distinct regional characteristics that reflect diverse consumer behaviors, economic conditions, and cultural practices across the country. North India, encompassing states with large urban centers like Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana, demonstrates strong demand driven by higher disposable incomes and exposure to modern cleaning products through retail chains and e-commerce platforms. The region's harsh weather conditions also play a role-dust accumulation during summer months creates consistent demand for effective sweeping solutions. South India presents interesting dynamics with its mix of traditional and modern cleaning practices. States like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana, with their booming IT sectors and growing middle class, show increasing adoption of advanced mop systems and ergonomic brooms. The region's cleanliness culture, evident in practices like daily floor washing, sustains steady demand for quality mopping solutions. East India, including West Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha, represents a value-conscious market where durability and price point matter significantly. Traditional brooms made from natural fibers maintain strong presence here, though urban centers like Kolkata are seeing gradual adoption of modern cleaning tools. West India, particularly Maharashtra and Gujarat, combines strong purchasing power with diverse consumer segments-from traditional households preferring time-tested cleaning methods to modern apartments using advanced spray mops and microfiber systems. Maharashtra's commercial capital Mumbai drives substantial institutional demand through its hotels, offices, and commercial establishments. These regional variations create opportunities for manufacturers to develop tailored product portfolios that address specific local preferences while maintaining national brand presence. ● Distribution Channel Evolution Balancing Traditional and Modern Retail The way Indians purchase brooms and mops is diversifying rapidly, creating a multi-layered distribution landscape that serves different consumer segments effectively. Supermarkets and hypermarkets have emerged as important channels, especially in urban areas where these large-format stores provide organized displays, product variety, and the convenience of one-stop shopping for household needs. Stores like Big Bazaar, Reliance Retail, and D-Mart allocate significant shelf space to cleaning products, recognizing them as regular purchase items that drive footfall. These modern retail formats offer consumers the ability to physically inspect products, compare options side-by-side, and often benefit from promotional pricing. Convenience stores, including traditional kirana shops and neighborhood stores, continue to play a vital role, particularly for replacement purchases and emergency needs. Their strength lies in accessibility-they're located within walking distance for most consumers and offer the personal touch of familiar shopkeepers who understand local preferences. These stores stock popular, fast-moving variants and provide credit facilities for regular customers, maintaining their relevance despite modern retail growth. Online retail, as previously discussed, is the fastest-growing channel, bringing together the product range of large stores with the convenience of home delivery. What's particularly interesting is how these channels complement rather than completely replace each other. Consumers often research products online, make first purchases from physical stores to evaluate quality, and then switch to online ordering for repeat purchases. Commercial buyers-hotels, offices, hospitals, and cleaning service companies-often use institutional supply channels or bulk-purchase through online platforms to get better pricing. This channel diversity ensures that products reach consumers through their preferred shopping method, maximizing market coverage and accessibility. ● Product Differentiation Creating Specialized Market Segments The India broom and mop market is moving away from one-size-fits-all offerings toward specialized products designed for specific cleaning tasks and consumer preferences. This segmentation creates opportunities for manufacturers to capture different price points and usage scenarios. Brooms now come in varieties optimized for different floor types-soft bristle versions for delicate flooring like marble and tiles, stiffer options for concrete and outdoor areas, and compact designs for small apartments. Natural fiber brooms appeal to eco-conscious consumers and those seeking traditional cleaning methods, while synthetic bristle variants attract buyers looking for durability and consistent performance. Mop categories show even greater differentiation. Traditional cotton mops maintain market share due to familiarity and low cost, particularly in price-sensitive segments. Microfiber mops command premium pricing by offering superior cleaning performance and longer lifespan. Spray mops target convenience-focused consumers, particularly working professionals who want quick and efficient cleaning solutions. Flat mops with disposable or washable pads appeal to those seeking hygienic options that avoid the bacterial growth issues associated with traditional mop heads. Ergonomic innovations-telescopic handles, rotating heads, hands-free wringing systems-create sub-segments within broader categories. This product diversity allows manufacturers to serve different consumer needs effectively while protecting themselves from price-based competition. Retailers benefit from being able to offer choice that matches customer requirements and budget constraints. The trend toward specialization reflects market maturity-as consumers become more discerning about cleaning tools, they're willing to invest in products that precisely match their specific needs rather than settling for generic solutions.

• Director General Office

The Global Climate Imperative: Escalating Risks and Urgent Call for Net-Zero Action

Sunita Narain of the Centre for Science and Environment aptly notes, "Climate change is a multiplier of poverty and inequality in India, disproportionately impacting the most vulnerable." India's demand for $1 trillion annually in climate finance from developed nations at COP28 underscores its call for equity and accountability. In 2025, the global community confronts a climate crisis of unparalleled scale and speed. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) warns that limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels requires greenhouse gas emissions to peak before 2025 and decline by 43% by 2030. Failure risks crossing "tipping points" with catastrophic consequences. The United Nations Environment Programme's Emissions Gap Report 2024 reinforces this, highlighting that current national commitments leave a "significant emissions gap" and make exceeding 1.5°C "virtually unavoidable" without rapid, transformative action. According to IPCC Working Group I, "Human influence has warmed the climate at a rate unprecedented in at least the last 2000 years," and delaying emissions reductions will drastically reduce the feasibility of climate stabilization. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized at COP29 that the 1.5°C limit is now "on life support," reflecting the dire need for accelerated global response. Escalating Climate Risks: Impacts on Humanity and Nature The physical manifestations of climate change intensify annually. Sea levels are projected to rise between 0.3 and 1 meter by 2100, threatening 200 million people with displacement. The World Meteorological Organization reports 2024 as one of the hottest years on record, with extreme events such as heatwaves killing thousands in South Asia and Europe, floods submerging 30% of Pakistan, and wildfires in Canada and Australia causing $200 billion in insured losses. The IPCC reports that biodiversity loss is accelerating with one million species at risk of extinction, disrupting essential ecosystem services. The World Bank estimates annual global economic damages from climate change could amount to 2-5% of global GDP by 2050 if emissions continue unabated. As Kristalina Georgieva, IMF Managing Director, states, "Climate change risks putting decades of development progress at risk and threatens global economic stability." Climate change exacerbates existing global inequalities. Low-income countries contribute only 10% of historical emissions but face 75% of the costs of adaptation, projected between $215 billion and $387 billion annually by 2030, per UNEP's Adaptation Gap Report. The Global Commission on Adaptation finds that every dollar invested in climate resilience generates $4 in economic benefits and lives saved. Yet, only 15% of required finance reaches vulnerable nations, fueling "a finance gap that imperils the most affected populations." According to the World Resources Institute, failure to close this gap risks perpetuating cycles of poverty and displacement. The UN High-Level Climate Champions assert that "climate finance must enhance equity and prioritize the most vulnerable." Methane Mitigation: A Critical Short-Term Lever Methane, although short-lived, has 80 times the warming effect of CO2 over 20 years, driving 25% of current global warming. Major contributors include agriculture (40%), fossil fuel extraction (35%), and waste management (20%). The Global Methane Assessment, led by climate scientist Drew Shindell, notes that rapid methane reduction is critical: "Cutting methane emissions can slow warming by 0.2°C within a few decades, buying critical time." UNEP data further indicate that methane reduction efforts are cost-effective and politically feasible, yet global emissions continue rising. Addressing methane offers the fastest potential for immediate climate benefits, alongside long-term CO2 mitigation. Ocean and Cryosphere Changes: The Underappreciated Crisis The Earth's oceans and cryosphere are undergoing profound transformation. Antarctica and Greenland are losing approximately 500 billion tons of ice annually, contributing to sea-level rise and threatening coastal communities. Ocean acidification has increased by 30% since pre-industrial times, impairing coral reefs and jeopardizing fisheries that sustain 3 billion people globally. The IPCC highlights that marine ecosystems are "at risk of critical functional impairment," with cascading effects on global food security. As the Pew Charitable Trusts emphasize, "Healthy oceans are vital for climate regulation, biodiversity, and livelihoods, yet remain underfunded priorities in the climate agenda." India at the Nexus of Vulnerability and Leadership India exemplifies the disproportionate burden few nations bear in the climate crisis. Ranking seventh on the Global Climate Risk Index, it faces frequent extreme weather events that displace millions. The country emits 7% of global greenhouse gases, but its per capita emissions are roughly half the world average. India's cumulative emissions since 1850 account for only 4% globally, reflecting historical development inequities. Yet climate impacts threaten a projected 15% GDP loss by 2050, with agricultural losses alone estimated at ₹7 trillion ($85 billion). A 2024–25 Yale survey shows 91% of Indian adults fear climate change, driven by direct experiences such as heatwaves and monsoon irregularities affecting over half the agricultural workforce. Sunita Narain of the Centre for Science and Environment aptly notes, "Climate change is a multiplier of poverty and inequality in India, disproportionately impacting the most vulnerable." India's demand for $1 trillion annually in climate finance from developed nations at COP28 underscores its call for equity and accountability.

• Industrial Pollution

Does India need to choose either EU or US EPA standards?

Analysts from the Centre for Science and Environment note that India has no certification scheme for CEMS. Laboratories capable of performing field calibrations and relative accuracy audits are few, and there is no formal recognition system. India’s struggle with air pollution is well known. From thermal power plants belching sulphur dioxide to the acrid fumes of brick kilns, the country’s emissions often eclipse the limits set in law. In response, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change began mandating continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS) and effluent monitoring for 17 categories of highly polluting industries more than a decade ago. Find your next air quality monitoring instrument in our international directory. Those monitors now number more than 30,000 across some 6,000 industrial facilities. The idea is to move from occasional spot checks to real‑time, regulator‑controlled surveillance. Yet the detail of how those systems are approved and quality‑assured is arguably as important as the sheer number of monitors installed. An overview of India's certification system At first glance, India’s strategy seems sensible: rather than wait for its own certification scheme, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) accepts two well-established approaches – the European Union’s type‑approved monitors and the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) performance‑based specification tests. CEMS must be shown to be fit for purpose using either European Quality Assurance Levels (QAL) or US performance specifications. In practice that has created what one industry commentator calls a hybrid system, where regulators recommend certified CEMS but also allow non‑certified devices if they pass performance tests during installation. To encourage domestic manufacturing, Indian operators are free to choose either route. EU vs. US standards The two standards, however, are built on very different philosophies. In the EU, continuous monitors must be put through a rigorous type‑approval process. Under schemes such as the UK’s MCERTS or Germany’s TÜV/UBA approval, a complete analyser – including sample probe, conditioning unit and data acquisition – is tested against harmonised standards like EN 15267 and EN 14181. Each certificate specifies the pollutants measured, the certified range of concentrations and the limitations of use. Once approved, that device can be treated as plug‑and‑play: operators are expected to perform only limited on‑site calibration before entering service and to follow prescribed calibration and surveillance intervals (QAL2, QAL3 and annual surveillance tests). The system is expensive and takes time – certification may last between six months and two and a half years – but the reward is a high degree of confidence in the data and comparability between sites. The EPA approach could not be more different. Instead of approving instruments in the lab, the US federal rules set out performance specifications in 40 CFR Parts 60 and 75. Any device – whether home‑built or imported – can be installed as long as it passes a suite of tests at the stack or duct itself. These include a seven‑day calibration drift check, three‑day correlation tests against reference methods, quarterly linearity checks and annual Relative Accuracy Test Audits (RATA). The onus is on the plant operator to prove to regulators that their equipment meets the specification and continues to do so over time. This site‑specific philosophy offers flexibility and fosters innovation but it demands a great deal of operator competence and regulatory oversight. An impossible system? Accepting both systems simultaneously introduces practical tensions. A European device certified for a particular range and process might be treated as plug‑and‑play, yet India’s guidance manual also requires monitors to demonstrate performance during installation. If a TÜV‑approved analyser fails a seven‑day drift test, should it be rejected despite its certificate? Conversely, a non‑certified, perhaps cheaper, monitor might pass its initial calibration and correlation tests but later be found unstable. The EU’s QAL regime emphasises long‑term stability (zero and span checks, quarterly tests and annual surveillance), while the EPA’s system focuses on initial drift and correlation, with the operator legally responsible for keeping the system in control. These regimes are not interchangeable. A QAL‑certified monitor may not satisfy US tolerance thresholds, while a monitor designed for US specifications may lack an EU‑style certification range or the detailed documentation regulators expect. There are also more subtle incompatibilities. European emission limits are expressed at 0 °C with an oxygen reference of 11% and use standardised averaging periods, whereas US limits use a 7% oxygen reference and different averaging intervals. European certificates are issued in normal cubic metres (Nm³), while US practice refers to dry standard cubic feet. Without consistent conversion, combining data streams from both systems risks misinterpretation. Moreover, the conditions in which an EU‑certified monitor is tested may not reflect the hot, dusty or corrosive environments found in many Indian stacks. If a device certified for relatively low particulate loads is used on a coal‑fired boiler with poorly operating electrostatic precipitators, does its certificate still inspire confidence? A lack of capacity The absence of a domestic certification and laboratory accreditation system compounds the problem. Analysts from the Centre for Science and Environment note that India has no certification scheme for CEMS. Laboratories capable of performing field calibrations and relative accuracy audits are few, and there is no formal recognition system. The result is predictable: regulators do not trust the data. Only about half of coal‑fired power plants regularly supply emissions data, despite almost universal installation of monitors. There is almost no reliable data on mercury emissions, and poor‑quality sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides measurements were common. Without trust, real‑time monitoring cannot be used for enforcement and the promise of transparency evaporates.

• Director General Office

A new collection explores the life of water in the time of climate change

Water future in a climate-risked world by Sunita Narain In this decade we will see the revenge of nature as climate change impacts increase. We need to scale our work to invest in local water systems to capture every drop of rain, so that we can build local resilience against drought. We also need to do it in our cities – lakes and ponds are the sponges that will allow us to harvest the rain-flood and make sure it does not become wasted water. We need to protect our forests and green spaces, as this is how water recharge will increase. In these times of water stress, not only must we make sure that wastewater or sewage is treated, but that it is recycled and reused. The waterbodies that we protect in our cities – the same ponds and tanks that we use to divert and harvest rainwater – can be used to channelise the treated sewage, and in turn, recharge groundwater. Water to water. We can be water-secure if we are water-wise. In the past few years, climate records have tumbled like never before. First, the planet observed its hottest June on record. Then came July, which recorded the hottest two weeks ever. In June, the surface temperature of the world’s oceans was the highest ever; Antarctica’s ice was the thinnest ever. The heat has gone off the charts in many parts of the world. Never before have there been extreme rainfall events that have resulted in such large-scale loss of property and lives. Scientists warn that this is only the beginning of our season of despair, because much is changing in the natural world around us.

• Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

In 21-day window, Haryana sees 95% drop from last year in early farm fires

Haryana recorded just seven cases of paddy residue burning between Sept 15 and Oct 6 this year, marking a steep 95% drop compared to 150 incidents reported during the same period last year. The state witnessed 4.7% farm fires this year as compared to 2024 in the same period. The seven incidents were scattered across a few districts, according to satellite data compiled by Indian Agricultural Research Institute. Faridabad reported two cases, while Fatehabad, Jind, Kurukshetra, Palwal and Sonipat recorded one case each. The active fire events were tracked using satellite remote sensing under the "Standard Protocol for Estimation of Crop Residue Burning Fire Events, " which flagged zero incidents across Haryana on Oct 6. Major rice-growing districts — such as Karnal, Kaithal and Ambala, which usually see high numbers of stubble-burning events — reported no incidents so far this year. Haryana has seen large fluctuations in paddy residue burning over the years. In the same period, the state recorded 209 cases in 2023, 74 in 2022, 24 in 2021 and 207 in 2020. Officials credit the current sharp decline to early interventions, increased adoption of crop residue management machinery and stricter field monitoring. A senior official from the Haryana Pollution Control Board said, "Farmers are increasingly using balers and happy seeders to manage paddy residue. Awareness campaigns and local enforcement have also helped. But the real test will come in the next few weeks as harvesting peaks across the state." Shubhansh Tiwari, a research associate with the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), said, "Authorities are stepping up on-ground monitoring and drone surveillance to ensure the low-burning trend continues through the peak harvest period in mid-Oct. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Haryana can sustain this significant reduction and avoid the sharp pollution spikes historically associated with post-harvest stubble burning

• Down To Earth

दार्जिलिंग की आपदा

पश्चिम बंगाल के पहाड़ों की रानी कहे जाने वाले दार्जिलिंग में भारी बारिश और भूस्खलन से तबाही मच गई है जिसने 23 लोगों की जान ले ली। सैकड़ों घर तबाह हो गए, सड़कें बह गईं। इसके चलते सिक्किम राज्य से भी सम्पर्क टूट गया। भूस्खलन से दार्जिलिंग के पास जलपाईगुड़ी जिला भी बुरी तरह से प्रभावित हुआ। बालासोन नदी पर बना दूधिया पुल भी टूट गया जिससे सिलीगुड़ी और मिरिक का सम्पर्क भी टूट गया। पश्चिम बंगाल सरकार ने तुरंत राहत और बचाव कार्य शुरू किए। इसी बीच भूटान ने वांगचू नदी में जलस्तर की वृद्धि के कारण उत्तरी बंगाल में बाढ़ की चेतावनी दे दी है। उत्तराखंड और हिमाचल की प्राकृतिक आपदाओं के बाद हिमालय के पर्वतीय क्षेत्र दार्जिलिंग में भूस्खलन यद्यपि एक सामान्य प्राकृतिक घटना है लेकिन यह आपदा हमें सतर्क कर रही है कि लोकप्रिय हिल स्टेशन में सब कुछ ठीक नहीं है। वैसे तो अपनी खूबसूरती और स्वास्थ्यवर्धक जलवायु के लिए मशहूर दार्जिलिंग अतीत में कई प्राकृतिक आपदाओं का शिकार रहा है। उपलब्ध रिकॉर्ड बताते हैं कि 1899, 1934, 1950, 1968, 1975, 1980, 1991 और हाल ही में 2011 और 2015 में बड़े पैमाने पर भूस्खलन हुए थे। 1968 में अक्तूबर में ही विनाशकारी बाढ़ आई थी, जिसमें एक हज़ार से ज़्यादा लोग मारे गए थे। गैर-लाभकारी संस्था सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट द्वारा प्रकाशित पर्यावरण स्थिति रिपोर्ट, 1991 में कहा गया है कि 1902-1978 के दौरान तीस्ता घाटी में बादल फटने की नौ घटनाएं हुईं। देशभर में आपदा की व्यापकता ने पर्यावरणविदों और शोधकर्ताओं को चिन्ता में डाल दिया है। पहाड़ों का अध्ययन करने वाले शोधकर्ताओं का कहना है कि हिमालय अभी भी बढ़ रहा है और अपनी प्रकृति में युवा है। यदि इसकी उचित देखभाल नहीं की गई तो दार्जिलिंग में उत्तराखंड और हिमाचल जैसी प्रलय आ सकती है। जनसंख्या में लगातार बढ़ौतरी, पर्यटकों की लगातार बढ़ती संख्या, दार्जि​लिंग और आसपास के क्षेत्रों यहां तक कि सिक्किम की नाजुक परिस्थितिकी तंत्र पर दबाव डाल रही है। पूर्वी हिमालय के समग्र पर्यावरणीय क्षरण से पहाड़ नंगे और बदसूरत हो चुके हैं। लगातार वनों की कटाई से मिट्टी के कटाव की समस्या बढ़ गई है। झरनों के सूखने और पानी के स्तर में बदलाव से भी समस्या बढ़ गई है। जिस तरह से इमारतों का प्रसार हुआ है और पहाड़ी क्षेत्रों में बहुमंजिला इमारतें बनती जा रही हैं जिनमें उचित जल निकासी की व्यवस्था भी नहीं है। पहाड़ क्षेत्र भी भीड़भाड़ वाले होते जा रहे हैं। पुराना आकर्षण खत्म हो गया है। पर्यटकों को ले जाने वाले वाहनों की संख्या बढ़ने से प्रदूषण बढ़ चुका है। भारतीय अंतरिक्ष अनुसंधान संगठन (इसरो) द्वारा प्रकाशित भारत के भूस्खलन एटलस 2023 में, दार्जिलिंग को 147 जिलों में सबसे अधिक प्रभावित क्षेत्र के रूप में 35वें स्थान पर रखा गया था। कलिम्पोंग के कर्नल प्रफुल राव के नेतृत्व वाले सेव द हिल्स सहित कई स्थानीय गैर सरकारी संगठन सोशल मीडिया पर तथा ठोस बहसों और जागरूकता अभियानों के माध्यम से इन खतरों को उजागर कर रहे हैं। सिक्किम में अक्तूबर 2023 में ल्होनक झील के टूटने से उत्पन्न होने वाली ग्लेशियल झील विस्फोट बाढ़ (जीएलओएफ) के बारे में सिक्किम मानव विकास रिपोर्ट 2001 में बहुत जोरदार चेतावनी दी गई थी। इस जीएलओएफ ने न केवल कई लोगों की जान ले ली, बल्कि 1200 मेगावाट की चुंगथांग जल विद्युत परियोजना को बहा ले गया, कई सार्वजनिक और सैन्य प्रतिष्ठानों को नष्ट कर दिया और अनुमानित 25,000 करोड़ रुपये से अधिक की क्षति हुई जो 2022-23 के सिक्किम के सकल घरेलू उत्पाद का लगभग 60 प्रतिशत है। पश्चिम बंगाल के दार्जिलिंग और जलपाईगुड़ी जिलों के निचले तटवर्ती क्षेत्रों तथा बंगलादेश में इसके कारण हुई भारी तबाही का अभी तक कोई हिसाब नहीं है। भारी वर्षा के साथ लम्बी अवधि के दौरान जल भराव बढ़ जाता है जिससे संवेदनशील ढलानों पर भूस्खलन का खतरा बढ़ता है। ग्रामीण और ऊंची पहाडि़यों में लोग ईंधन के रूप में लकड़ी का इस्तेमाल करते हैं। इसलिए पेड़ों की अवैध कटाई लगातार जारी है। ब्रिटिश काल में भवन निर्माण मानदंडों और ​दिशा-निर्देश पूरी तरह से त्याग दिए गए। पहाड़ों को बचाने के लिए कोई कारगर योजना लागू ही नहीं की गई। तत्कालिक आर्थिक लाभ और तीव्र विकास ने पर्यावरण को संकट में डाल दिया है। प्राकृति मनुष्य के हाथों वर्षों से चली रही खामोश बदनामी और निरंतर अनादर का बदला लेने के लिए पलटवार करती दिखाई दे रही है। जितना मानव ने प्रकृति को नुक्सान पहुंचाया है उतना किसी ने नहीं पहुंचाया है। सरकारों को चाहिए कि कारणों की पहचान कर उनके निवारण के निष्कर्षों से पता चलता है कि न तो भूस्खलन को रोकना संभव है न ही इसके नुक्सान को पूरी तरह से समाप्त करना ले​किन कुछ बुनियादी उपायों और सार्वजनिक जागरूकता के साथ काम किया जाए तो नुक्सान की संभावना को सीमित किया जा सकता है।