In 2019, air pollution was responsible for 1.67 million deaths, accounting for 17.8% of all deaths in the country, according to a study published by researchers from Boston College, the Indian Council of Medical Research and the Public Health Foundation of India. This devastating impact led to an astonishing $36.8 billion or 1.36% of India’s GDP economic loss.
The number of deaths from outdoor particulate matter and ozone pollution has increased sharply, mostly by vehicle emissions and coal use. Even though indoor air pollution deaths, primarily related to cooking stoves have fallen 64.2% since 1990, the life-long health impacts for children, including increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and lower IQ are still a major concern.
“Pollution takes an enormous human toll in India, It is also having a profound effect on the next generation of Indians”, said lead study author Dr. Philip J. Landrigan, M.D
The report emphasizes the urgent need for policy intervention and concerted actions to avoid serious health, economic impacts from pollution in India.
Newer technologies like Retrofit Emission Control Device by Chakra Innovation, which significantly reduces emissions from diesel engines, offer a glimmer of hope in combating this crisis. A combination of strict enforcement of existing policies such as National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and technological advancements is necessary for cleaner air and India's healthy future.
