Air Quality

DO YOU FANCY the outdoors? Is a morning walk an essential part of your routine? Everywhere in the world you'd be counted as super healthy-not India, as our air may be poisoning you slowly. According to the WHO, 13 of the 25 cities with the highest concentration of particulate matter-the most harmful pollutants-are in India. In December, a Greenpeace (India) study, based on the National Air Quality Index, established that 15 out of 17 Indian cities, where National Air Quality Index stations are situated, showed levels of pollution that far exceeded the prescribed standards. Even smaller cities were potential 'gas chambers.'

"Everyone talks about Delhi because it is the capital," says Sunil Dahiya, campaigner, Greenpeace India. "But you will find alarming pollution levels in Patna, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Muzzaffarpur and Faridabad." We have the embarrassing distinction of having exceeded the 'toxic' levels of Beijing and other Chinese cities, he says.

As we debate the odd-even vehicle rule and impose bans on diesel guzzling luxury SUVs in Delhi, policymakers need to look at holistic solutions-starting with installing solar panels on every government building, tax-credits for companies and individuals who build and buy electric and hybrid cars. Dedicated cycling lanes, footpath and walking tracks and feeder services like rickshaws from metro stations to service passengers and carpooling services by private taxi companies. Ordinary citizens could do the same with friends and neighbours-and switch to CNG.

But above all, India needs a country-wide mass transit system that relies on clean energy.