What is Air Pollution / Air Quality Management?
The presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere, including gases, particulate matter, and biological molecules, that cause discomfort, disease, or death to humans, damage other living organisms, or harm the natural environment. Air Quality Management refers to the strategies and policies implemented to monitor, control, and reduce air pollution.
Historical Background
Industrialization and rapid urbanization post-independence, particularly since the 1980s, have led to a significant increase in air pollution in India. Major cities like Delhi have consistently ranked among the most polluted globally, leading to public health crises and increased policy focus in recent decades. The Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1984) further highlighted the need for comprehensive environmental protection.