Importance of an Airshed-Based Strategy for Pollution Control

Understanding the Airshed-Based Strategy

An airshed-based strategy is an innovative approach to managing air quality by dividing regions into specific zones. These zones are characterized by their unique climatic conditions, pollution sources, and geographical features. By managing each airshed independently, this strategy aims to address pollution more effectively and locally.

Classification of India's Airsheds

India has categorized its landscape into six major physical land blocks containing 15 distinct airsheds:

• Himalayan Region: Western and Eastern Himalayas
• Indo-Gangetic Plains: Upper, Middle, Trans-Gangetic Plains, Lower GP
• Plateau Region: Central, Eastern, Western, Southern Plateaus
• Arid or Desert Region: Western Dry
• Coastal Plains: West Coast, East Coast
• Urbanized North-East Region: Eastern Himalayas

Advantages of an Airshed-Based Approach

The airshed-based approach offers several benefits:

• Localized Solutions: Targets specific pollution sources and climatic factors relevant to each airshed.
• Better Coordination: Facilitates cooperation between states and urban areas sharing the same airshed.
• Targeted Efforts: Focuses on cities and regions facing severe pollution, such as Delhi-NCR and the Indo-Gangetic Plains.

Feasibility Aspects of the Strategy

Several factors contribute to the feasibility of implementing this strategy:

• Data Availability: Research on PM2.5 levels and long-term emissions has already identified airsheds.
• Defined Boundaries: Clearly outlined zones enable more efficient management.
• Policy Frameworks: Existing agencies, such as the Commission for Air Quality Management, can oversee implementation efforts.

Challenges of the Airshed-Based Approach

Despite its advantages, this strategy faces significant challenges:

• Coordination Between States: Overlapping state jurisdictions complicate the enforcement of regulations.
• Limited Local Action: Urban bodies and state agencies often lack the necessary resources and authority to act decisively.
• Absence of a National Strategy: There is currently no overarching policy ensuring accountability across airsheds.
• Economic and Industrial Impacts: Targeted interventions may encounter resistance from industries and other stakeholders.

Steps for Effective Implementation

To ensure the successful implementation of the airshed-based strategy, the following steps should be taken:

• Strong Legal Frameworks: Establish mandates for cooperation among states within each airshed.
• Resource Allocation: Provide adequate funding and technical support to urban local bodies.
• Public Awareness: Raise awareness about the importance of localized pollution management for public health and the environment.
• Digital Monitoring Systems: Implement systems for real-time data collection and sharing among stakeholders.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is an airshed-based strategy?
Answer: An airshed-based strategy categorizes regions into zones based on unique climatic conditions and pollution sources, allowing for localized pollution management.

Q2. How are India’s 15 airsheds categorized?
Answer: India’s airsheds are categorized into six major land blocks, including the Himalayan Region and Indo-Gangetic Plains, encompassing distinct geographical features.

Q3. Why is an airshed-based approach desirable?
Answer: This approach focuses on localized solutions and better coordination among states, enabling targeted efforts in highly polluted regions.

Q4. What challenges does the airshed-based approach face?
Answer: Challenges include coordination issues between states, limited local action, and the absence of a national strategy for accountability across airsheds.

Q5. What steps are needed for effective implementation?
Answer: Effective implementation requires strong legal frameworks, resource allocation, public awareness, and digital monitoring systems for real-time data sharing.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary benefit of an airshed-based strategy?
A) Global coordination
B) Localized pollution management
C) Increased industrial output
D) Reduced costs in pollution control
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which of the following is NOT a challenge for the airshed-based approach?
A) Coordination between states
B) Strong legal frameworks
C) Limited local action
D) Economic impacts
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: How many airsheds are identified in India?
A) 10
B) 12
C) 15
D) 20
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: What is a key requirement for effective implementation of the strategy?
A) Reduced public awareness
B) Strong legal frameworks
C) Less funding for local bodies
D) Increased pollution levels
Correct Answer: B