How are environmental rankings, like 'Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan,' conducted?
Environmental rankings, such as 'Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan,' are typically conducted through a structured process that involves data collection, analysis, and evaluation of specific criteria related to the subject matter, in this case, air quality and environmental factors. These rankings are often overseen by government agencies responsible for environmental protection, such as the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Who conducts these rankings?
These rankings are usually conducted by government agencies or organizations responsible for monitoring and managing specific aspects of the environment. In the context of air quality rankings, CPCB, a statutory organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, often plays a central role in overseeing and conducting these assessments.
What is the purpose of these rankings?
The primary purpose of these rankings is to assess and compare the performance of cities or regions in terms of specific criteria, such as air quality, cleanliness, or environmental conservation. They serve as tools to raise awareness, encourage improvements, and inform policy decisions.
What criteria are used for rankings like 'Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan'?
Rankings are based on specific criteria relevant to the subject matter. For air quality rankings, criteria may include air pollutant levels, compliance with environmental regulations, emission controls, and improvement trends over time.
How are scores assigned to cities or regions?
Scores are typically assigned based on the data collected and analyzed according to the established criteria. Cities or regions receive scores reflecting their performance in meeting these criteria.
How often are these rankings published?
Rankings are usually published periodically, often annually, to provide updated information on the subject matter's status and progress.
What is the role of public awareness and participation in improving rankings?
Public awareness and participation are crucial factors in improving rankings. When the public is informed and actively engages in efforts to address environmental challenges, it can lead to better outcomes and higher rankings.
Are there targeted actions recommended for improving rankings?
Yes, rankings often come with recommendations for targeted actions to address specific challenges and improve performance. These actions may include urban forest cover, road dust mitigation, emission control, waste management, and more.
What is the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)?
The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) is a comprehensive initiative by the Indian government aimed at addressing air pollution and improving air quality in Indian cities. It focuses on implementing measures to reduce air pollution, raise public awareness, and promote sustainable practices for better air quality.
Categories of Cities under 'Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan':
'Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan' ranks cities based on the population size into three categories:
Over 10 lakh population (47 cities)
Between 3-10 lakh population (44 cities)
Less than 3 lakh population (40 cities)
Efforts and Initiatives in Raipur:
Raipur attributed its improved air quality to efforts such as raising public awareness, encouraging public participation, urban forest development, road dust mitigation, emission control, cleanliness drives, and sustainable waste management.
The city's municipal corporation plans to further enhance air quality by introducing electric buses, installing electric vehicle charging stations, and conducting more tree plantation drives for environmental conservation.
Top-Ranked Cities:
In the category of cities with a population of over 10 lakh, Indore in Madhya Pradesh secured the first rank in the 'Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan,' followed by Agra in Uttar Pradesh, and Thane in Maharashtra, which stood at the third position.
