In a bid to combat air pollution, Odisha is set to introduce the State Clean Air Programme (SCAP) in 12 cities previously excluded from the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). This decision was made during the 9th State Level Air Quality Monitoring Committee (AQMC) meeting, led by Satyabrata Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary of the Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department.
Rapid economic growth, urbanization, and industrialization in Odisha have exacerbated pollution levels from vehicular emissions, road dust, domestic cooking, waste and biomass burning, and fugitive emissions. Currently, seven cities — Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Angul, Talcher, Kalinga Nagar, and Balasore — have air quality improvement measures under NCAP. Recognizing the need for broader action, SCAP will now be implemented in Sambalpur, Berhampur, Puri, Paradeep, Keonjhar, Joda, Barbil, Bonai, Rajgangpur, Jharsuguda, Brajarajnagar, and Belpahar.
The Forest and Environment Department will propose budgetary support to the state government for the next five years to facilitate SCAP. The Chief Minister will be asked to launch the programme officially, reaffirming the state’s dedication to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
The AQMC meeting saw participation from Dr K Murugesan, Member Secretary of the State Pollution Control Board, Prem Kumar Jha, Director of Environment, Amitabh Thakur, State Transport Commissioner, and senior officials from the Housing and Urban Development and Industries Departments, alongside district-level officers.
