In India, air quality is a major concern, as urbanization, industry, and vehicle emissions have a negative impact on the environment. As a result, in 2014, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched the National Air Quality Index. In response, the Ministry of Environmental Forest and Climate Change launched in 2014 a National Air Quality index (NAQI).
What is the National Air Quality Index?
1. NAQI: What is it?
- NAQI’s primary goal is to raise awareness about air quality among the public.
- This system is an early warning, which allows the public to take action when air pollution levels are rising.
2. Parameters monitored
NAQI measures the air quality based on eight pollutants.
- Particulate matter (PM10)
- Particulate matter (PM2.5).
- Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
- Sulfur Dioxide
- Carbon Monoxide
- Ozone
- Ammonia (NH3)
- Lead (Pb).
3. Categorization for Air Quality
NAQI is a classification of air quality that categorizes it into six distinct levels.
- Good (0-50).There is little to no danger and the air quality meets expectations.
- Modest (51 to 100)The air quality in the city is good. However, some of its pollutants can be problematic for those who have unusually high sensitivity.
- Unhealthy in Sensitive groups (101-200)The general public will not be adversely affected.
- Unhealthy (201-300)All people may start to feel the effects of alcohol, but members of vulnerable groups can experience more severe effects.
- Very Unhealthy (31-400)Alert: Everyone may suffer from more severe health effects.
- Hazardous (401-500)Warnings about emergency situations. All of the population may be at risk.
4. Data collection and reporting
- Air Quality Data is collected at various Monitoring Stations in urban and rural India.
- The NAQI mobile application and website provide the latest data in real-time.
The National Air Quality Index: Its Importance
1. Public Awareness
- NAQI educates and informs its citizens of the health effects that air pollution can have on them.
2. Policy Making
- This Index is a valuable tool for policymakers, and it helps them make important decisions to improve air quality by implementing regulations and initiatives.
3. The Health Consequences
- NAQI’s role is to identify the sources of pollution and formulate health warnings for those populations that are most vulnerable, such as the elderly, children, and people with existing health problems.
4. Clean Air Initiatives
- Information from the NAQI can be used by communities to encourage local governments to adopt more environmentally friendly technologies and practices. This will help reduce air pollution.
NAQI Implementation Case Studies
1. Delhi: the Capital Dilemma
Delhi is consistently ranked at the top of air pollution charts due to construction, vehicle emissions and stubble burning by neighboring states.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartThe NAQI predicts that PM2.5 concentrations will peak during winter 2020. As a result, authorities are taking emergency measures such as stopping construction work and decreasing vehicle usage.
2. Mumbai Industrial Landscape
Mumbai is known for heavy pollution from industry and traffic.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartNAQI data from summer 2021 showed an increase in NO2 due to the increased traffic, as restrictions on lockdown were eased. This led to campaigns to encourage residents to use public transportation.
3. Bengaluru’s IT Hub
Bengaluru has seen an increase in air pollution as a result of the growth of tech-related industries.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartThe NAQI showed a marked increase in PM2.5 as a result of construction activity, causing citizens to become more aware of the risks that dust and haze pose.
4. Lucknow: The Public Reaction
After NAQI measurements showed unsafe levels of air pollution, cities such as Lucknow mobilized citizens to demand cleaner air.
- You can also see our Example of a Good Way to StartUsing data obtained from NAQI, local NGOs have conducted awareness campaigns on open burning wastes and automobile emissions.
Critiques and Challenges
1. Limited Monitoring Stations
- There are not enough monitoring stations to get a complete picture of air quality in all parts of India.
2. Public Engagement
- More education is needed to help the public understand NAQI and its implications.
3. Simple Implementation
- Bureaucratic challenges and delays can hinder the implementation of NAQI-based policies.
4. Dependence on base Parameters
- Many critics claim that NAQI is not a comprehensive measure of indoor air pollution.
Future Scope
1. The expansion of monitoring networks
- Increased monitoring station numbers and innovative technology, such as mobile units of monitoring can improve the accuracy of data.
2. Stricter regulations
- Improved regulations for industrial emissions, and better urban planning will improve air quality.
3. Participation of the Public
- Mobile apps that allow the public to participate in monitoring air quality and reporting it can encourage greater involvement from communities.
4. Integrated Approach
- Better outcomes can be achieved for urban residents by adopting a holistic perspective that considers the links between air pollution, health, and climate changes.
You can also read our conclusion.
National Air Quality Index is a crucial tool for identifying and responding to the air pollution crisis in India. Although there has been some success in raising public awareness, it is necessary to continue efforts in order to combat the degrading air quality in many cities. India can achieve cleaner air through a combination of public education, community involvement, and stricter regulation.
Q&A about the National Air Quality Index
1. What is National Air Quality Index?
NAQI was launched by India’s Government to give the general public easy-to understand information about air quality at various places in the country. The NAQI categorizes air pollution levels into six different levels.
2. What is the frequency of updating the NAQI air quality data?
Data on air quality is constantly updated, in most cases every hour. This data comes from the assessments of monitoring stations throughout the country.
3. How do I get NAQI data?
NAQI information can be found on the NAQI’s official website and in various environmental mobile applications.
4. What can I do if my NAQI shows poor air quality?
Air purifiers should be used indoors if the NAQI reveals that the air quality is unsafe or unhealthy.
Which people should pay particular attention to air quality measurements?
Poor air quality can have a negative impact on people with existing health problems (such as asthma, heart disease or children). During high-pollution days, these people should exercise extra caution.
6. How can NAQI data help you to find long-term improvements in air quality?
In the long term, solutions can include tighter standards on emissions for industrial sectors, promotion of public transport and switching to alternative energy sources.
7. Does NAQI include rural areas in its coverage?
Although the initial focus was on urban areas there are growing efforts to monitor and report air quality in rural areas. This will allow us to better understand how it impacts all areas of our country.
8. How does the NAQI score get determined?
NAQI is calculated by multiplying the values of all the pollution parameters monitored and assigning them a value. This single number is then classified according to six predefined categories.
9. Is it possible for the public to participate in air quality monitoring?
There are programs that encourage citizens to use mobile apps or report concerns about air pollution. This will increase public involvement in monitoring and improving air-quality.
10. What is the response of government to NAQI results?
As highlighted by NAQI, the government has taken various steps to combat air pollution. These include implementing more strict pollution control, improving waste disposal practices, upgrading public transport, and promoting campaigns of awareness.
