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NHRC, India’s fourth ITEC Executive capacity-building programme on human rights for NHRIs of the Global South concludes in New Delhi

The speakers included NHRC Chairperson, Justice Shri V. Ramasubramanian, Member, Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi, Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal, Shri V. K. Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, Shri Rajeev Kumar, Former Chief Election Commissioner of India, Dr. Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay and Shri Rajiv Jain, former Members, NHRC, Shri Yugal Kishore Joshi, Mission Director at NITI Aayog, Ambassador Asoke Kumar Mukerji, former PR of India to UN, Mr. Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator, India, Smt. Sunita Narain, Director General, Centre for Science and Environment, India, Smt. Sumita Dawra, former Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment, Shri Manoj Yadava and Shri Ajay Bhatnagar, former DGs(I), NHRC, Shri Surajit Dey, former Registrar (Law), NHRC and Shri Samir Kumar, Joint Secretary, NHRC. The programme was also enriched by the sharing of the experiences by the participating senior functionaries of various NHRIs.

पटाखों पर पूर्ण प्रतिबंध कारगर नहीं, संतुलित दृष्टिकोण की ज़रूरत: सुप्रीम कोर्ट

सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरमेंट कई बार इस पर खुलकर अपनी राय भी ज़ाहिर कर चुका है कि कम अज़ कम राजधानी में बढ़ते प्रदूषण के स्तर को रोकने के लिए न सिर्फ़ दिल्ली में बल्कि आसपास के राज्यों को भी पटाखों के इस्तेमाल और पराली जलाने की घटनाओं से सख्ती से निपटने की ज़रूरत है. सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने शुक्रवार (26 सितंबर) को कहा कि पटाखों पर पूर्ण प्रतिबंध से माफियाओं को इस उद्योग पर कब्जा करने और अवैध रूप से अपना माल जनता को बेचने का रास्ता खुल जाएगा. द हिंदू की खबर के मुताबिक, भारत के मुख्य न्यायाधीश बीआर गवई की अध्यक्षता वाली पीठ ने सुनवाई के दौरान इस बात का उल्लेख किया कि कैसे बिहार में खनन पर पूर्ण प्रतिबंध के कारण माफियाओं का उदय हुआ है. मुख्य न्यायाधीश गवई ने हजारों श्रमिकों को रोजगार देने वाले पटाखा उद्योग के खिलाफ कठोर और तानाशाह दृष्टिकोण अपनाने की बेकार कोशिश पर टिप्पणी करते हुए कहा, ‘जैसा कि हमने अतीत में अनुभव किया है, पूर्ण प्रतिबंध लागू नहीं किया जा सकता है.’ इस संबंध में सर्वोच्च न्यायालय ने एक ‘संतुलित दृष्टिकोण’ अपनाने का आह्वान करते हुए कहा कि इसे लेकर एक ऐसी नीति होनी चाहिए, जो यह सुनिश्चित करे कि पटाखा उद्योग में आजीविका कमाने का अधिकार, वायु प्रदूषण के दुष्प्रभावों से प्रभावित हुए बिना, स्वच्छ पर्यावरण के अधिकार के साथ सह-अस्तित्व में रहे. पीठ ने पर्यावरण मंत्रालय को एक ऐसा समाधान खोजने का निर्देश दिया है, जिसमें सभी पहलुओं पर विचार किया जा सके. मालूम हो कि इस संबंध में अदालत से पटाखा निर्माताओं और विक्रेताओं सहित सभी हितधारकों की बात सुनने को कहा गया है. हरित पटाखों की अनुमति इस बीच अदालत ने उन निर्माताओं को, जिन्हें नीरी (एनईईआरआई) और पेसो (पीईएसओ) द्वारा हरित पटाखे बनाने का प्रमाण पत्र प्राप्त है, अपना काम जारी रखने की अनुमति दे दी है. हालांकि, अदालत ने इन निर्माताओं को यह वचन देने का निर्देश दिया है कि वे अगले आदेश तक प्रतिबंधित क्षेत्रों में अपने उत्पाद नहीं बेचेंगे. ज्ञात हो कि इस संबंध में 12 सितंबर को हुई पिछली सुनवाई में मुख्य न्यायाधीश ने पूरे देश में पटाखों के निर्माण, बिक्री और उपयोग के लिए एक समान नीति बनाने और उसे लागू करने की आवश्यकता पर ज़ोर दिया था. मुख्य न्यायाधीश गवई ने कहा था, ‘अगर पटाखों पर प्रतिबंध लगाना है, तो यह पूरे देश के लिए करना होगा… साथ ही, इस उद्योग पर निर्भर गरीबों का भी ध्यान रखना होगा.’ मुख्य न्यायाधीश गवई ने पूछा था कि देश के अन्य हिस्सों और शहरों में रहने वाले नागरिकों को वायु प्रदूषण से राष्ट्रीय राजधानी शहर के ‘अभिजात वर्ग’ (Elite) के समान राहत क्यों नहीं दी जानी चाहिए. उल्लेखनीय है कि अदालत ने अप्रैल 2025 में दिल्ली और राष्ट्रीय राजधानी क्षेत्र (एनसीआर) में पटाखों की बिक्री, उत्पादन और निर्माण पर ‘सर्वव्यापी, स्थायी’ प्रतिबंध की पुष्टि की थी. उस समय सर्वोच्च न्यायालय ने नागरिकों के स्वच्छ वायु के अधिकार की रक्षा के लिए इस तरह के कठोर कदम को ‘बेहद आवश्यक’ पाया था. तब अदालत ने तर्क दिया था कि प्रतिबंध को सर्दियों या त्योहारों के मौसम के कुछ महीनों तक सीमित रखने से कोई फायदा नहीं होगा क्योंकि पटाखों का भंडारण साल भर केवल प्रतिबंध अवधि के दौरान ही बिक्री और उपयोग के लिए किया जाएगा. कोर्ट ने ‘तथाकथित हरित पटाखों’ में वैज्ञानिक सुधार करने की ज़िम्मेदारी निर्माताओं पर डाल दी थी. इस मामले में न्यायमित्र वरिष्ठ अधिवक्ता अपराजिता सिंह ने कहा था, ‘यह गलत धारणा है कि वायु प्रदूषण केवल अभिजात वर्ग की समस्या है. असल में, इससे सड़कों पर रहने वाले लोग पीड़ित हैं. निर्माण मजदूर और दिहाड़ी मजदूर…’ पटाखा उद्योग की ओर से पेश वरिष्ठ अधिवक्ता के. परमेश्वर ने कहा था कि अप्रैल 2025 में दिल्ली और राष्ट्रीय राजधानी क्षेत्र (एनसीआर) में पटाखों की बिक्री, उत्पादन और निर्माण पर पूर्ण प्रतिबंध लगाने की सर्वोच्च न्यायालय की पुष्टि के कारण उनके लाइसेंस रद्द किए जा रहे हैं. इनमें से कुछ लाइसेंस 2028 तक वैध थे. पराली जलाने की घटनाएं मालूम हो कि बीते साल इस मामले की न्यायमित्र (एमिकस क्यूरी) और वरिष्ठ वकील अपराजिता सिंह ने अदालत का ध्यान पंजाब और हरियाणा में पराली जलाने की घटनाओं की ओर भी दिलाया था. उन्होंने कहा था, ‘दीपावली के एक दिन पहले यानी 30 अक्टूबर 2024 को लगभग 160 जगहों पर पराली जलाने की घटना दर्ज़ हुई है. दीपावली के दिन यानी 31 अक्टूबर को यह संख्या बढ़कर 605 हो गई.’ सुप्रीम कोर्ट में इस सुनवाई के दौरान उस रिपोर्ट का भी ज़िक्र हो चुका है जब 2015 में प्रदूषण का ओजोन परत पर पड़ते प्रभाव के विश्लेषण के दौरान मॉनिटर ने अपना काम करना बंद कर दिया था. सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरमेंट कई बार इस पर खुलकर अपनी राय भी ज़ाहिर कर चुका है कि कम अज़ कम राजधानी में बढ़ते प्रदूषण के स्तर को रोकने के लिए न सिर्फ़ दिल्ली में बल्कि आसपास के राज्यों को भी पटाखों के इस्तेमाल और पराली जलाने की घटनाओं से सख्ती से निपटने की ज़रूरत है. हालांकि, सुप्रीम कोर्ट के स्पष्ट दिशानिर्देशों के बावजूद, पंजाब और हरियाणा में अब तक पूरी तरह से पटाखों पर प्रतिबंध नहीं लग सका है. इस मामले में ध्यान देने वाली बात ये भी है कि हाल ही में सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने पराली जलाने वाले किसानों के खिलाफ सरकारों को सख्ती से निपटने की बात कही थी. इस संबंध में अदालत ने कहा था, ‘पराली जलाने वालों के खिलाफ दंडात्मक प्रावधान क्यों नहीं किए जा रहे हैं. सरकार कार्रवाई से कतरा क्यों रही है. कुछ लोगों को जेल भेजने से सही संदेश जाएगा.’ सीजेआई बीआर गवई ने आगे कहा था कि हम किसानों का सम्मान करते हैं क्योंकि वो हमें खाना देते हैं, लेकिन किसी को भी पर्यावरण को दूषित करने की अनुमति नहीं दी जा सकती. मालूम हो कि इसी साल जुलाई के महीने में भारत की राजधानी दिल्ली में खतरनाक वायु प्रदूषण से निपटने के लिए पुराने वाहनों को ईंधन की बिक्री बंद करने के दो दिन बाद अधिकारियों ने 3 जुलाई को कहा कि यह प्रतिबंध व्यावहारिक नहीं है. रिपोर्ट के मुताबिक, कई अध्ययनों में बताया गया है कि नई दिल्ली को नियमित रूप से दुनिया भर में सबसे प्रदूषित राजधानियों में से एक माना जाता है, जहां वाहनों से होने वाला उत्सर्जन सबसे अधिक खतरनाक है. द लांसेट मेडिकल जर्नल में छपे एक अध्ययन के अनुसार, 2019 में भारत में 1.67 मिलियन असामयिक मौतें वायु प्रदूषण के कारण हुईं. ज्ञात हो कि हर साल सर्दी में वाहनों और कारखानों से निकलने वाले उत्सर्जन के साथ-साथ आस-पास के राज्यों में खेतों में पराली जलाने से उत्पन्न हुई आग शहर को धुंध में लपेट देती है. ठंडा तापमान और धीमी गति से चलने वाली हवाएं घातक प्रदूषकों को फंसाकर स्थिति को और खराब कर देती हैं. ऐसे में जीवाश्म ईंधन से चलने वाले परिवहन पर आंशिक प्रतिबंध और टैंकर द्वारा पानी के छिड़काव जैसी सरकार की छोटी-छोटी पहलों का कोई खास असर नहीं हुआ है.

Ozone pollution across urban India

The NGT, September 26, 2025 directed that two cases related to increase in ozone pollution should be clubbed. The case would be next heard on November 12, 2025. The tribunal was examining the issue of rising ground level ozone pollution across Indian major cities. The NGT had taken suo motu cognisance of the article appearing in Down to Earth, August 6, 2024 "CSE report finds dangerous increase in ozone pollution across urban India". The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), September 25, 2025 disclosed that the ozone levels were analysed in 10 regions cited in the CSE report covering 178 monitoring locations - Delhi-National Capital Region (57 stations); Mumbai Metropolitan Region (45 stations); Kolkata Metropolitan Area (10 stations); Greater Hyderabad (14 stations); Bengaluru Metropolitan Area (1 1 stations); Chennai Metropolitan Area (7 stations); Pune Metropolitan Region (12 stations); Greater Ahmedabad (10 stations); Greater Lucknow (6 stations) and Greater Jaipur (6 stations). The report said that "The Delhi-NCR and Mumbai Metropolitan Regions reported higher exceedances of ozone concentration compared to other regions". The elevated levels could be attributed to emissions from the transport sector, power plants, and industrial activities, which collectively contribute to the overall NOx emission load. Counsel for the CPCB submitted that in a CPCB report filed for another case, a study was proposed to identify and recommend specific measures for planning and controlling the sources of ozone and its precursors and formation of the Expert Committee has also been recommended by the MoEF&CC. The issue is in progress in that case.

The Hidden Risks Of Lipstick Ingredients And Their Link To Lung Cancer

Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) survey of 30 lipsticks reported chromium and nickel but no lead or cadmium. Lipstick is one of the most commonly used cosmetics worldwide, but beneath its glossy allure may lie hidden health concerns. Multiple studies and experts have raised alarms about the presence of toxic heavy metals in certain lipsticks, highlighting long-term risks, including potential links to lung cancer. Do Lipsticks Contain Heavy Metals? According to Dr Geetanjali Patil, Consultant Pulmonologist, Ruby Hall Clinic, Wanowrie, research shows that many lipsticks contain carcinogenic heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, chromium, beryllium, and thallium. “Studies have revealed that 96% of lipsticks tested contained lead, 51% cadmium, 90% beryllium, and 61% thallium. These metals can enter the body through skin absorption, accidental ingestion, or even inhalation," she explains. Dr. Kiran Tamkhane, Cancer Physician at M|O|C Thane, adds that global concerns about contamination are valid. “Lead is a probable human carcinogen and neurotoxin, while cadmium is a Group 1 human carcinogen strongly associated with lung, breast, and endometrial cancers after chronic exposure," he notes. Indian Studies and Findings Indian research paints a mixed picture. Dr. Tamkhane highlights a Moradabad study that analysed 60 lipstick samples and detected lead (0.12–4.9 µg/g) and cadmium (3.48–46.38 µg/g). By contrast, a VIVA College, Virar study of five popular student brands found no detectable lead or cadmium, though other metals like copper, nickel, chromium, and zinc were present within permissible limits. Similarly, a Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) survey of 30 lipsticks reported chromium and nickel but no lead or cadmium. “These findings suggest variability across brands and batches, reflecting gaps in regulatory oversight," says Dr. Tamkhane. Regulatory Standards & Gaps in India India’s Drugs & Cosmetics Act and Rules prescribe limits for impurities in colouring agents: up to 20 ppm lead and up to 100 ppm for total heavy metals (other than lead). However, Dr. Tamkhane stresses that “there is no clearly defined limit for finished lipstick products for certain metals like cadmium. More importantly, enforcement is weak, and manufacturers are not required to disclose exact levels." This regulatory gap leaves consumers vulnerable to chronic, low-dose exposures, which, over years, may add to cumulative toxic load, especially in India where environmental exposures are already high. Impact on Lung Health Cadmium stands out as particularly harmful. Dr. Patil warns, “Cadmium is strongly linked to lung cancer and kidney damage. Inhalation or ingestion of heavy metals from lip products can trigger respiratory issues, including coughing and wheezing." Echoing this, Dr. Sulaiman Ladhani, Pulmonologist, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai, points out that while inhaling lipstick directly is unlikely to cause instant lung cancer, “Chronic absorption and accumulation of harmful substances over time can contribute to lung damage and increase susceptibility to cancers, including lung cancer." He emphasizes that the danger lies not in immediate toxicity but in cumulative exposure, “Continuous use increases cumulative risk. It is not limited to lung cancer but extends to other malignancies due to systemic absorption."

पराली नहीं दिल्ली के प्रदूषण की वजह कुछ और...? विशेषज्ञों ने खोली पोल, सवालों के घेरे में सरकारें

विगत कुछ वर्षों से राष्ट्रीय राजधानी के वायु प्रदूषण की मुख्य वजह पराली जलना बताई जाती रही है, लेकिन सच्चाई यह कतई नहीं है। प्रदूषण की रोकथाम में अपनी नाकामी छिपाने के लिए पूर्ववर्ती सरकारें स्थानीय कारकों की अनदेखी करके इसी का ढोल पीटती रही हैं। हालांकि, विशेषज्ञों ने कभी भी इस झूठे सच को स्वीकार नहीं किया। तमाम थिंक टैंक के अध्ययन और विश्लेषण बताते रहे हैं कि दिल्ली के प्रदूषण के लिए स्थानीय कारक जिम्मेदार हैं और दिल्लीवासियों को राहत दिलाने के लिए सरकार को पहले अपने कारकों पर काम करना होगा। इस अत्यंत गंभीर विषय को लेकर हम आपके समक्ष एक समाचारीय शृंखला प्रस्तुत करने जा रहे हैं, जो स्थिति की गंभीरता दर्शाने के साथ ही समस्या के वास्तविक कारणों से आपका परिचय कराएगी और उपाय भी सुझाएगी। सर्दियों की दस्तक अभी नहीं हुई है, लेकिन राजधानी में प्रदूषण का स्तर बढ़ने लगा है। इसका अंदाजा इसी से लगाया जा सकता है कि जो एयर क्वालिटी इंडेक्स (एक्यूआइ) अभी 10 दिन पहले तक 100 से नीचे यानी संतोषजनक श्रेणी में चल रहा था, अब 100 से ऊपर मध्यम श्रेणी में पहुंच गया है। प्रदूषण के स्तर में हो रही इस वृद्धि की सबसे बड़ी वजह वाहनों का ईंधन जलने से निकलने वाला धुआं है। पुणे के इंडियन इंस्टीट्यूट आफ ट्रापिकल मीट्रियोलाजी (आइआइटीएम), जो डिसीजन सपोर्ट सिस्टम (डीएसएस) के जरिये हर वर्ष सर्दियों में दिल्ली के प्रदूषण की निगरानी करता है, के विज्ञानी भी इसकी पुष्टि करते हैं। एयरोसोल पर अध्ययन करने वाले डा. सचिन दिनकर घुड़े बताते हैं कि बेशक पंजाब और हरियाणा में पखवाड़े भर से पराली जलनी शुरू हो गई हो, लेकिन दिल्ली के एक्यूआइ में अभी तक इसकी हिस्सेदारी शून्य है। अगले तीन-चार दिन तक भी यही स्थिति रहने वाली है। वहीं, दूसरी तरफ, दिल्ली के प्रदूषण में सबसे बड़ी हिस्सेदारी वाहनों से निकलने वाले धुएं की रही है। दिल्ली के विभिन्न हिस्सों में सड़कों पर बने बाटलनेक के कारण लगने वाले यातायात जाम के चलते वाहन सामान्य गति के मुकाबले बेहद धीमे चलते हैं या रुक-रुक कर चलते हैं, इससे ईंधन कहीं अधिक जलता है और जहरीली गैसों का उत्सर्जन कई गुना बढ़ जाता है। दूसरे सार्वजनिक परिवहन व्यवस्था लचर होने के चलते सड़कों पर वाहनों की संख्या भी बहुत अधिक रहती है। इसके अलावा, टूटी सड़कों और निर्माण स्थलों की धूल, औद्योगिक धुआं, कचरा जलाना और मलबा भी प्रदूषण बढ़ाने में योगदान दे रहा है। शेष कसर एनसीआर के जिलों का प्रदूषण पूरी कर दे रहा है। दिल्ली के प्रदूषण में किस कारक की कितनी हिस्सेदारी कारक हिस्सेदारी (प्रतिशत में) वाहनों का धुआं 25 प्रतिशत कचरा जलाना 20 प्रतिशत सड़कों की धूल 20 प्रतिशत निर्माण व ध्वंस कार्यों की धूल 15 प्रतिशत उद्योगों से निकला धुआं 10 प्रतिशत अन्य स्रोत 10 प्रतिशत पराली शून्य दिल्ली के प्रदूषण में स्थानीय कारक जिम्मेदार : सीएसई सेंटर फार साइंस एंड एन्वायरमेंट (सीएसई) की कार्यकारी निदेशक अनुमिता राय चौधरी के मुताबिक दिल्ली की हवा में अभी पराली जलने के चलते होने वाले प्रदूषण की हिस्सेदारी नहीं के बराबर है। इसके बावजूद दिल्ली का एक्यूआइ बढ़ने लगा है। इसके लिए स्थानीय स्रोतों को ज्यादा जिम्मेदार ठहराया जाना चाहिए।

Delhi-NCR and Mumbai Metropolitan regions reported higher exceedances of ozone concentration compared to other regions: CPCB

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) report, September 25, 2025 said that ozone levels were analyzed in 10 regions cited in the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) report covering 178 monitoring locations/stations. The analysis based on 2 per cent exceedance criteria of National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) has been done. The Delhi-NCR and Mumbai Metropolitan Regions reported higher exceedances of ozone concentration compared to other regions. The tropospheric or ground-level ozone is formed primarily from complex non-linear photochemical reactions between two major classes of air pollutants, volatile organic compounds (VOC) and nitrogen oxides WC)x). Besides, carbon monoxide (CO) and methane (CH4) emitted by residential and agricultural sources also play a role in ozone formation, said the CPCB report filed before the National Green Tribunal (NGT). These reactions typically depend upon the presence of heat and sunlight, resulting in higher ambient ozone concentrations in summer months. The elevated levels could be attributed to emissions from the transport sector, power plants, and industrial activities, which collectively contribute to the overall NOx emission load. The NGT was further informed that in a similar matter before the tribunal, the CPCB filed a report, December 20, 2024. In the report a study was proposed to identify and recommend specific measures for planning and controlling the sources of ozone and its precursors. The MoEFCC had recommended the constitution of an expert committee composed of specialists in the relevant field and submit report in a time bound manner as mentioned in the CPCB report. Further, through order of August 21, 2025, the NGT had granted time to MoEFCC to indicate the proposed Terms of Reference for the expert committee and the experts who are proposed to be included in the committee. The matter has been listed for November 12, 2025. The NGT, March 21, 2025 had directed the CPCB to reply on the news item appearing in Down to Earth, August 6, 2024 titled "CSE report finds dangerous increase in ozone pollution across urban India".

Climate migration set to rise sharply by 2050 as climate stress intensifies, says report

Recurring droughts have forced pastoralist communities in Turkana, Marsabit and Garissa to move in search of pasture and water, while devastating floods along the Tana River and in Budalang’i have displaced families time and again. A new report warns that these local experiences reflect a wider continental crisis. The State of Africa’s Environment 2025 report projects that by 2050, up to five per cent of Africa’s estimated two billion people—nearly 100 million—could be forced to migrate due to climate stress. Released by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) in partnership with Down To Earth magazine, Alliance for Science–Ethiopia and Media for Environment, Science, Health and Agriculture, the report shows that Africa’s youthful population, averaging just 19 years, will face unprecedented climatic disruptions where migration becomes the new normal. Global data from the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) revealed that disasters triggered nearly 265 million displacements between 2015 and 2024, with 90 per cent linked to floods and storms. Africa, the report noted, has been among the hardest hit. “Internal displacements have tripled in the last 15 years and climate-related disasters alone have driven a six-fold increase in forced movement. Floods account for over 75 per cent of Africa’s disaster displacements, while droughts contribute about 11 percent,” it showed. In Kenya and across eastern Africa, most climate-related displacements occur during rainy seasons. IDMC data showed that the March–May 2024 long rains displaced over 500,000 people between October 2023 and January 2024. By the end of 2024, around 185,000 people remained in internal displacement, 131,000 of them due to drought. Experts describe this phenomenon as “climate mobility,” where migration becomes both a coping mechanism and an adaptation strategy. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change notes that while migration can help households adjust, outcomes depend heavily on social, economic and governance factors. “For most Africans, migration is not across borders but short distances within their own countries, often to nearby towns or safer rural areas,” the report explained. “Cyclones Idai and Freddy, repeated droughts in the Horn of Africa, and worsening floods across Kenya and Nigeria highlight what lies ahead.” By 2050, the International Organization for Migration projects as many as 200 million additional “environmental migrants” worldwide, with Africa at the epicentre. Sunita Narain, director general of CSE, stressed that climate migration is no longer a distant scenario but a lived reality. “The question is not whether millions will move, but how governments and communities can prepare to manage this inevitable human mobility,” she said. “Each year, each month, extreme weather is breaking a new record. I call this the revenge of nature. But we have no option except to stay on course.”

Climate migration set to rise sharply by 2050 as climate stress intensifies, says report

Recurring droughts have forced pastoralist communities in Turkana, Marsabit and Garissa to move in search of pasture and water, while devastating floods along the Tana River and in Budalang’i have displaced families time and again. A new report warns that these local experiences reflect a wider continental crisis. The State of Africa’s Environment 2025 report projects that by 2050, up to five per cent of Africa’s estimated two billion people—nearly 100 million—could be forced to migrate due to climate stress. Released by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) in partnership with Down To Earth magazine, Alliance for Science–Ethiopia and Media for Environment, Science, Health and Agriculture, the report shows that Africa’s youthful population, averaging just 19 years, will face unprecedented climatic disruptions where migration becomes the new normal. Global data from the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) revealed that disasters triggered nearly 265 million displacements between 2015 and 2024, with 90 per cent linked to floods and storms. Africa, the report noted, has been among the hardest hit. “Internal displacements have tripled in the last 15 years and climate-related disasters alone have driven a six-fold increase in forced movement. Floods account for over 75 per cent of Africa’s disaster displacements, while droughts contribute about 11 percent,” it showed. In Kenya and across eastern Africa, most climate-related displacements occur during rainy seasons. IDMC data showed that the March–May 2024 long rains displaced over 500,000 people between October 2023 and January 2024. By the end of 2024, around 185,000 people remained in internal displacement, 131,000 of them due to drought. Experts describe this phenomenon as “climate mobility,” where migration becomes both a coping mechanism and an adaptation strategy. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change notes that while migration can help households adjust, outcomes depend heavily on social, economic and governance factors. “For most Africans, migration is not across borders but short distances within their own countries, often to nearby towns or safer rural areas,” the report explained. “Cyclones Idai and Freddy, repeated droughts in the Horn of Africa, and worsening floods across Kenya and Nigeria highlight what lies ahead.” By 2050, the International Organization for Migration projects as many as 200 million additional “environmental migrants” worldwide, with Africa at the epicentre. Sunita Narain, director general of CSE, stressed that climate migration is no longer a distant scenario but a lived reality. “The question is not whether millions will move, but how governments and communities can prepare to manage this inevitable human mobility,” she said. “Each year, each month, extreme weather is breaking a new record. I call this the revenge of nature. But we have no option except to stay on course.” Instant Analysis

Green Concrete

bout 200 years ago, in 1824, Joseph Aspdin, a British bricklayer, invented the earliest form of Portland Cement, the principal element of concrete, in his kitchen. Since then and even today, concrete has been one of the most widely used materials in construction, largely characterising the architecture of the 20th century globally. The material has lent itself to countless forms, allowing architects and construction professionals to achieve unique works that skilfully express their creativity. But what has pushed us now to rethink our concrete practices? While concrete has significantly shaped our built environment, it also accounts for over 7% of the total greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. This massive carbon footprint has driven us to redefine our construction practices and look for greener alternatives, without compromising the functionality and integrity of our infrastructure. In an online interaction organised by ACE Update, acclaimed architects and industry experts discuss how innovative alternatives, such as autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) and recycled aggregates, are making traditional concrete greener, as well as the importance of carbon capture and the need for upskilling and a change in mindset. How are AACs changing the game? AAC blocks are made from raw materials like cement, fly ash, sand, lime, water, and expansion agents. These blocks are not only lightweight but also offer high strength and excellent thermal insulation properties. AACs have emerged as a preferred green construction alternative due to their strong insulation, fire resistance, durability, and low carbon footprint. While AAC blocks are gaining traction, their high water absorption rates and the eventual expansion and contraction that occur when water is absorbed and then lost are raising concerns about their adoption. Rajdeep Chowdhury, Business Head – VAP & AAC – TPO, Biltech Building Elements, breaks the myth, explaining how AAC blocks are completely durable. “This is not true. When you pour water on an AAC block, there is immediate suction. But, because the pore structure is not continuous in these blocks, there is no capillary suction and the water does not travel like it does in concrete.”, explains Rajdeep. The larger surface area of these AAC blocks also prevents water from seeping inside. Rajdeep also explains how AACs can be used in external walling, as well as with appropriate plastering/rendering. “Sealing the joints appropriately and plastering the surface meticulously is important. AACs can serve as ideal candidates for walling applications, both internal and external. Not only this, AACs can be used in large-scale infrastructure as well.”, comments Rajdeep. Concrete can itself act as a “carbon sink” While the carbon emissions associated with cement production are a debated topic, what is often overlooked is the use of concrete itself as a carbon sequestration source. Concrete can act as a carbon sink by reabsorbing the carbon dioxide produced during the production of cement. Dr Sanchit Gupta, Senior Research Associate in the Department of Civil Engineering at IIT Indore, elucidates this. “Calcium hydroxide released during the production of cement can be used to absorb the CO2 released during the cement production process. This carbonation process not only controls the release of CO2 into the atmosphere but also enhances the properties of concrete.”, comments Dr. Sanchit. Awareness, upskilling, and more Decarbonising concrete need not be focused only on finding greener options. Reducing dependency on concrete should also be considered. Ar. Sugeet Grover, Programme Manager, Sustainable Habitat, Centre for Science and Environment, emphasises the need to explore alternative methods of construction and also the importance of spreading awareness and upskilling workers. “Apart from low-carbon concrete, it is also important to re-examine our construction methods. Engineered timer, fly ash, and recycled aggregates top the list. Consider designs that carry loads more efficiently by reducing the overall concrete volume and allowing for thinner concrete sections. High-strength concrete, design minimisation/optimisation, prioritising reusable elements, geopolymer concrete, and adopting circular economy principles are the need of the hour!”, opines Ar. Sugeet. Dr Priyanka Kochhar, Chief Executive Officer of The Habitat Emprise, emphasises the importance of upskilling and creating awareness. “Upskilling is important. Developers and construction professionals should take that effort to educate and upskill their workers, and show them the path to embrace alternate methods of construction.” Dr. Sanchit also adds his thoughts. The compendium of technologies released by the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) clearly indicates the house design material selections for different parts of the country. It sheds light on the material selection available, technologies, and other options for sustainable construction. But what impedes the adoption is the lack of awareness and appropriate upskilling.”, comments Dr. Sanchit. What governs the standardisation of recycled aggregates? Dr Sanchit highlights three key pathways: “First is at the source, like when people give the necessary information on the waste generated, the users can get an idea of the strength and substitution level when the material is used in concrete. The second should be from the recycler. When the quality of waste is unknown, the recycler should make an effort to produce an end product of the same standard quality/properties. The third aspect is the training/awareness that is to be given to the construction agencies. These should always conduct the standard tests stipulated by the codes, e.g., IS383.”

High-voltage debates, big annou and awards: All eyes on ET Energ Leadership Summit 2025

Adding to the policy discussions, Sunita Narain, DG, Centre for Science and Environment, will deliver a keynote on “Energy Futures for Development, Clean Air and Climate Change" The agenda also includes a fireside chat with Girish R Tanti of Suzlon Energy on the role of wind, while the AI x Energy panel will bring together LKS Rathore from Ministry of Power, Pankaj Sharma from PPAC, Naveen Srivastava of Power Grid Corporation, and Prashant Atreya of NHPC Ltd. MNRE minister Pralhad Joshi's remarks are expected to highlight the government’s latest policy measures and investment outlook for achieving the 500 GW non-fossil energy target by 2030. Delhi. With the theme “Leadership Strategies for a Susta Future” , the two-day event promises to bring together to global energy leaders, and corporate heavyweights at a t energy transformation is being closely watched across th A high-powered ministerial line-up The summit begins with a keynote by Srikant Nagulapall Secretary, Ministry of Power, followed by the much-anti ministerial address of Union Cabinet Minister for New an Energy and Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribut Joshi. His remarks are expected to highlight the governm policy measures and investment outlook for achieving th fossil energy target by 2030.

'Real world moving faster than politics': Experts reject Trump's dismissal of climate change

Avantika Goswami, head of the climate change programme at the Centre for Science and Environment, said that as the second largest emitter and a petrostate controlling the dollar, the US regression on climate is harmful for global goals. New Delhi: US President Donald Trump on Tuesday called climate change "the greatest con job ever perpetrated on the world", a dismissal that experts say must not shake countries' resolve to fight the crisis, since action is overtaking political posturing in the real world. Experts warned that Trump's speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) may complicate diplomacy in the run-up to the UN climate change conference in Belem, Brazil, but they insist that momentum lies in the policies countries adopt. Trump's rhetoric, whether calling climate change a "hoax" or a "con job", is a "reckless assault on our shared future", said Harjeet Singh, climate activist and founding director of Satat Sampada Climate Foundation Avantika Goswami, head of the climate change programme at the Centre for Science and Environment, said that as the second largest emitter and a petrostate controlling the dollar, the US regression on climate is harmful for global goals. "But this should not weaken the resolve of other countries," she said, urging nations to use COP30 to reinforce commitments on scaling down fossil fuels and pursuing green industrial policy. Shailendra Yashwant, senior advisor at Climate Action Network South Asia, said Trump's address "comes as no surprise as he has been desperately trying to prop up the dying oil and gas industry in the face of record-breaking renewable energy uptake across the world". Citing a recent IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency) finding that solar is now 41 per cent cheaper than fossil fuels, he said, "The real world is moving faster than politics." Yashwant also emphasised that the real significance lies in how leaders show up at COP30, invoking Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's message that

Parking Puzzle: Dire Need to Unlock the Parking Game

The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) report states that - 30% of traffic congestion in Indian cities is caused by vehicles searching for parking. And, all of those who have played musical chairs with cars around Connaught Place in Delhi, MG Road in Pune, Fort area in Mumbai or Hazratganj in Lucknow, will tend to agree. Urban India is facing an acute parking crisis as rapid vehicle ownership outpaces available infrastructure. With nearly 3.9 crore registered vehicles nationwide and only limited designated parking spaces. Delhi, for instance, has over 1.5 crore vehicles but fewer than one lakh registered spots and the situation has become chaotic. Tier-2 cities are equally strained, with residents forced to park on streets due to inadequate off-street options. Traffic congestion, wasted time, safety concerns, and frustration are daily realities for commuters, business owners, women, and senior citizens. As cities grow, intelligent, inclusive, and technology-driven parking solutions are becoming an urgent necessity to restore order and efficiency. First let’s take a look at some facts: As of August 2025, India has about 27,544 parking lots nationwide. And there are ~8,214 public parking spaces catalogued in major cities (public parking = officially designated spots) Total registered vehicles in India (as of early 2025) is 389.771 million (i.e. ~3,897.71 lakh) as per a most recent data. The rapid increase in vehicle ownership, coupled with limited land availability, has led to chaotic street parking, traffic congestion, and frustrated commuters. For example, Delhi has over 1.5 crore registered vehicles but less than a lakh of registered parking space. Same goes with Mumbai with estimated 47 lakh registered vehicles and less than 70,000 authorized parking spots. No better are smaller cities like Nagpur with ~21 lakh vehicles but only 43 authorized on-street parking spots and Kolkata with ~37.6% of car owners keep vehicles parked on roads (rather than off-street) due to lack of alternatives. Musical Chairs with Cars The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) report states that - 30% of traffic congestion in Indian cities is caused by vehicles searching for parking. And, all of those who have played musical chairs with cars around Connaught Place in Delhi, MG Road in Pune, Fort area in Mumbai or Hazratganj in Lucknow, will tend to agree. “To ease the time taken for circulation in locating a parking space, car parks have to be located in convenient locations and be easily accessible. Relevant traffic studies have to be conducted to ensure this. Unnecessary circulation increases congestion, wastes time as well as fuel. Car parks also need to be well lighted, ventilated, secure and with rest rooms as many ladies and elderly use these facilities. Time taken to enter a car park, find a space and exit needs to be minimal, not more than 10 minutes. Municipalities and urban authorities are not structured to build and maintain parking facilities. This is not their core competency. This is best achieved by collaborating with private developers in public, private, partnership mode (PPP), said Arvind Mayar, Chief Executive Officer, Secure Parking. Parking Chaos: Burden on Time & Health The Boston Consulting Group (BCG), in a report on urban mobility last year estimates that drivers in Indian metro cities spend up to 20 minutes per trip looking for parking. Cumulatively, that amounts to 7.5 days per year spent in search of a parking spot. The most impacted by this daily grind are The mid-income care owners, who live in buildings with inadequate parking arrangements Small shop & business ownerswho face business losses as customers shy away from visiting the place Womendrivers cite safety concerns, especially due to illegal and unauthorized parking agencies Senior citizensvisiting hospitals/medical facilities have tough time due to lack of adequate parking facilities Gig workerslike cab drivers, delivery agents and ride-sharing partners often face fines due to poor parking availability. Emergency servicessuch as ambulances and fire engines are frequently delayed due to indiscriminate parked vehicles blocking roads and narrow lanes. The Reality Check Under the "smart cities" initiative, cities are to develop smart parking systems using IoT sensors and AI to identify empty slots, reducing congestion and increasing parking revenue. Then there is the recent case of Nashik city, where parking woes persist, despite being part of the Smart City Mission. The Smart City corporation handed over the parking spaces to the civic body, but it is yet to be executed even by NMC. As per Sumant More, CEO, Nashik Municipal Smart City Development, the contractor concerned refused to operate on-street and off-street parking facilities at 32 locations, demanding extension of contract period and waiver of annual royalty amount. And even after three years, the parking issues remains unresolved. Kolhapur, a designated smart city, celebrated the inauguration of Bombay High Court’s Kolhapur circuit bench, meant to be a milestone for the city. Instead, it turned into a case study of inadequate planning. Traffic snarls have paralyzed nearby areas, vehicles are stuck for hours, and the lack of designated parking for litigants, advocates, and officials exacerbate the chaos. Far from being a celebration of progress, it has highlighted glaring gaps between infrastructure promise and reality. Puzzle Parking for Parking Puzzle Automated systems can achieve a much higher parking density, and in congested market places or business areas, they eliminate the need to drive around searching for a spot, significantly reducing traffic congestion in parking areas and surrounding streets. Noida Authority is planning to build its first automated puzzle parking in Sector 63. Designed by Orionn Architects, the four-level facility to be managed through RFP will have a capacity of 100 vehicles (25 per floor) and will use a sensor-based mechanism to automatically shift vehicles between floors in 3–6 minutes, offering faster, safer, and space-efficient parking. As per General manager SP Singh the facility is designed to ease parking woes in places where space is limited with poor parking conditions." Tower car parking systems too offer a compelling alternative by maximizing the use of vertical space and automating the parking process. These systems installed in quite a few commercial buildings, retail hubs, and office towers in Mumbai can accommodate up to 100 cars in the space required for just 2-6 surface parking spots. While, automated car parks are ill suited for public use or market places, they are best for residences and offices, says Arvind Mayar. On a positive note, he adds, “There are several success stories specially in many cities including Delhi and Mumbai, of public car parks developed by municipal, metro or urban development authorities. Many of these have some retail attached to improve customer convenience.” For instance, to address the chronic menace of traffic congestion, the Lucknow Municipal Corporation in May this year has introduced 100 on-roadside parking spots across several key areas in the city. Additional municipal commissioner Pankaj Shrivastava said the survey identified 74 existing parking locations that were closed after the revision of urban parking rules, which prohibited roadside parking. "Basic amenities like drinking water, toilets and shade will also be developed at these parking sites as per govt directions," he added. Decoding the Urban Parking Dilemma The National Urban Transport Policy 2006 (NUTP) advocates the imposition of parking fees commensurate with land valuation costs, establishing park-and-ride facilities at transit nodes, a tiered system of parking fees, and creating multi-level parking structures in urban cores. Many cities across India such as Surat, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Pune, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chandigarh, among others, have formulated parking policies for their respective urban areas. But on a closer look the multiplicity of governing bodies from police to municipals, outdated building codes, commercialization of streets by vendors and incoherent urban land use guidelines have left the parking directives not aligned with desired objectives An inclusive, intelligent urban planning is the need of the hour, that may include multi-level parking systems, community parking bays, digitized mapping, and incentives for off-peak travel to ease this urban menace. It is imperative, solutions must consider not only vehicle volume but also human experience.

When the sun becomes a threat

It was just 12 p.m. in Accra, but the streets already shimmered under a punishing sun. At the bustling Accra New Town, Hawawu Abdul Karim, a journalist in her mid-30s, wiped sweat from her forehead as she drank from a bottle of water. “Last year, the heat was too much,” she sighed. “I drank a lot of water, but it did not help—it only kept me dehydrated. How do we survive if every year is hotter than the last?” She was compelled to keep bottled water in her fridge at home. Miss Hawawu, who was then working with Voice of America (Hausa) from Ghana, was required to produce quality stories for publication. This meant she had to hunt for stories via public transport under a scorching sun. “Sometimes, I got home so tired, and my room was always so warm that I could not produce stories on time,” she said. Hawa added that she had sleepless nights, drenched in sweat, because of the heat. The situation became even worse when there was a power outage at night or during the day when she was at home. Hawawu’s story is one of millions across Ghana and Africa, where rising heat is fast becoming a silent crisis. According to a new review by the India-based Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), Africa is warming at 0.3°C per decade — nearly 1.5 times faster than the global average. In 2024 alone, the continent recorded an average temperature anomaly of 0.87°C above normal. For Elias, a 36-year-old entrepreneur and farmer in Jirapa, the problem is no longer just the daytime heat. “Sometimes, I feel pain in one side of my neck with off-and-on headaches. Later, the neck pain became so severe that I could not even turn my neck to that side. The heat was really unbearable—imagine sleeping in a room with as many as six people,” he said. CSE’s review shows that night-time land surface temperatures across Africa have risen sharply, with cities like Cairo, Lagos, and Accra recording alarming increases. For families living in informal settlements with poor ventilation, the risk of heat-related illness grows each year. Cities turning into heat traps In Kumasi, Ghana’s “Garden City,” green spaces that once cooled the urban environment are shrinking. Dr Alex Nti-Kani, an environmental economist with Centre for Climate Change & Food Security (CCCFS), explained that rapid urbanisation means people are cutting down trees and paying for every open space.

Delhi braces for rising air pollution as winter nears

With the onset of cooler weather, Delhi is once again preparing for the seasonal surge in air pollution that has become a recurring public health crisis. Capital’s air quality could deteriorate sharply in the coming weeks as emissions from vehicles, industry, and stubble burning combine with stagnant weather conditions. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) shows that pollution levels begin climbing in late September, peaking between October and January when low wind speeds and temperature inversion trap pollutants close to the ground. Last year, Delhi recorded “severe” air quality on multiple days, forcing school closures, flight disruptions, and restrictions on construction and traffic. One of the biggest contributors remains vehicular emission. According to Kalyani Tembhe, Deputy Programme Manager, Centre for Science and Environment, Delhi’s own pollution is very high and within that around 50 per cent pollution is getting contributed through vehicular emission. Despite repeated crackdowns and subsidies for alternative methods, crop residue burning in neighbouring Punjab and Haryana add to the toxic mix. Meanwhile, environment minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said that the government will conduct a study on titanium oxide-based ‘smog-eating’ coatings that can be applied to roads to curb the air pollution in the city. He said that if the study confirms that the technology is effective and cost efficient, the department will move the proposal for implementation. Health experts caution that even short exposure to polluted air can aggravate respiratory illnesses. With hospitals already stretched, the coming months are expected to test the city’s resilience once again. “You should try to avoid outdoor activities as much as possible. Even when somebody is moving out, they should use a mask. A face mask is a must. In case of any respiratory ailment or such problem, it should not be taken lightly, ” Dr. Ajay Swaroop, ENT Surgeon, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital had told Tehelka earlier. The minimum temperature in the city was recorded at 23.8 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, with the weather office predicting a mainly clear sky. The maximum temperature is expected to settle around 35 degrees Celsius, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

Stubble burning begins with 64 farm fires in Punjab, Haryana and UP

Experts note that the early numbers are not significant enough to affect Delhi’s air quality. “Since the fire counts are currently low, the impact on Delhi’s air is negligible. But preparations must be in place, as October usually marks the peak of the burning season,” said Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director, Centre for Science and Environment. The stubble burning season has officially begun, with 64 farm fire incidents recorded in neighbouring states of Delhi between September 15 and 21, 2025, according to satellite data compiled by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI). While experts say the current numbers are too low to impact Delhi’s air quality, trends indicate a sharp spike in farm fires from October onwards, coinciding with the withdrawal of the monsoon from northwest India. Punjab leads in early farm fire cases Of the total 64 reported cases, Punjab alone accounted for 56, while Haryana recorded three, Uttar Pradesh four, and Rajasthan one. Within Punjab, Amritsar topped the list with 35 cases, followed by Patiala with seven and Tarn Taran with five. Interestingly, despite flood-related challenges this year, Punjab has already reported slightly more cases than the same period last year (56 in 2025 compared to 52 in 2024). Negligible impact on Delhi air quality for now Experts note that the early numbers are not significant enough to affect Delhi’s air quality. “Since the fire counts are currently low, the impact on Delhi’s air is negligible. But preparations must be in place, as October usually marks the peak of the burning season,” said Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director, Centre for Science and Environment. She also stressed the importance of providing farmers timely access to crop residue management machines and ensuring proper collection of waste stubble, especially in flood-affected areas where logistics pose additional challenges.