(a) whether the emissions of gaseous pollutants, especially nitrous oxides have increased
in the country over the past two decades;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the concrete steps taken by the Government to check the emissions of gaseous
pollutants in the country?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)
(a) & (b) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is monitoring ambient air quality under
the National Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAMP) at 339 stations across the country. The
levels of sulphur dioxide (SO2) are showing decreasing trend and are well within notified
limits. The levels of nitrous oxide are within notified limits and showing fluctuating trend.
The annual average concentration of nitrous oxide in some cities like Kolkata, Pune,
Bangalore, Delhi, etc have increased in 2006 as compared to 1990, whereas in other cities
like Mumbai, Chennai, Chandigarh, Bhopal etc., it has shown a decreasing trend.
(c) The Steps initiated to abate air pollution inter- alia include the following:
# Notification of general and source specific environmental standards;
# Identification of sources of pollution;
# Enforcement of auto exhaust standards for vehicles at manufacturing stage;
# Introduction of Bharat Stage-II and Stage-III emission norms for vehicles;
# Introduction of improved Pollution Under Control (PUC) certification system for
in- use vehicles;
# Cleaner fuels and improved technologies for power generation; and
# Regular monitoring for environmental compliance.