Bengaluru’s struggling with its bad air quality, and yet, nothing ever gets done.
Story so far: Two years ago, Bengaluru received ₹425 crores from the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). As per the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), the city has not used its funds to the fullest. Compared to Davangere, Kalaburagi and Hubballi-Dharwad, Bengaluru is actually falling behind.
- According to the BBMP, their plans for clearing fine dust particles, water fountains, etc., are still in the Detailed Project Report (DPR) stage.
- Officials from the pollution board also said that these things have come up even though Bengaluru’s air quality has improved over the last two years.
Stating specifics: KSPCB officials have said that other cities managed to get 100 points under the NCAP in 2020-21. At the same time, Bengaluru got 75.
- As per available data, however, PM10 (Particulate Matter) came down to 62 in 2020-21 from 92 in 2018-19. Something the board is sure will fall even lower when the projects come into play.