Ranchi is gearing up to install three state-of-the-art air quality monitoring stations across strategic locations in the city. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board (JSPCB) and the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, marking a crucial step towards cleaner and healthier air for residents.
The strategically chosen locations for these monitoring stations are Kanke, Morabadi, and Ratu Road, aiming to provide comprehensive coverage across the city. This transformative project falls under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), a nationwide initiative launched by the central government in 2019 to address air quality concerns in 122 cities, including Ranchi.
The primary goal of the NCAP is to achieve a 20-30% reduction in particulate matter (PM) concentration by 2024. Ranchi, classified as a non-attainment city due to its failure to meet prescribed air quality standards, is taking proactive measures to curb pollution.
AK Rastogi, Chairman of JSPCB, highlighted the significance of these monitoring stations in identifying and addressing sources of air pollution in the city. The stations will meticulously measure various pollutants, including PM 10, PM 2.5, nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone. The collected data will be collaboratively analyzed by JSPCB and IIT Delhi, facilitating informed and effective actions.
Rastogi emphasized that the JSPCB has already implemented several measures to combat air pollution, such as prohibiting the use of diesel generators, enforcing vehicle emission norms, regulating construction and demolition activities, and conducting public awareness campaigns. Additionally, there are plans to extend this initiative to other districts in the state by installing more air quality monitoring stations.
This forward-thinking approach underscores Ranchi’s commitment to creating a cleaner and greener environment for its residents. Stay tuned for updates as Ranchi takes bold strides towards a pollution-free future.
