Launch Event of Centre for Air Pollution Studies (CAPS)
CSTEP has launched the Centre for Air Pollution Studies (CAPS) in order to provide scientific, high-quality policy advice for improving air quality in India and the South Asian region. This is in line with Government of India’s policies, such as the National Clean Air Action Programme, which encourages context-specific studies to identify pollution sources and the extent of their contribution.
Validation and Consultation Workshop for Patna Clean Air Action Plan (PCAAP)
The workshop provided a background to the Clean Air Action Plan for Patna, along with interventions that are being taken by different stakeholders. The main objectives of the session were (a) background setting on air pollution by the Bihar State Pollution Control Board, (b) convergence of PCAAP with National Clean Air Programme, (c) overview of PCAAP, and (d) brief overview of the interventions by various line departments.
Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IIT Kanpur)
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kanpur
M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
Measurement & Monitoring
Source Apportionment
CAPS has undertaken a source-apportionment study in Bengaluru to quantify pollutant sources and provide the necessary scientific evidence for informed policymaking. Under this study, CAPS will conduct chemical characterisation of collected samples (over three seasons) and run the receptor model to quantify the pollutant sources.
Modelling & Analysis
Modelling Studies
Dispersion modelling: Dispersion modelling is essential to forecast and estimate the impact of policies on air quality. Researchers typically use existing models such as the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model and CAMx for this purpose. These models consider variations in weather patterns and local emission loads to estimate particle dispersion across a given geography. These models are well-accepted and used in various parts of the world. CAPS will build capacity in the use of these computation tools.
Policy Engagement
Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP)
CAPS is preparing Clean Air Action Plans for the cities of Patna, Gaya, and Muzaffarpur in Bihar.
What we do
Air quality in most Indian cities is worsening due to the haphazard growth in transportation, construction, industrial activity, and power generation. How can we follow a developmental path that leads to better air quality, without necessarily compromising on economic growth? This is the central question facing policymakers and citizens today. The onus of bringing change is not the responsibility of the government alone. Active involvement from different stakeholders in the society is necessary to make collective and informed decisions and implement them.
Air pollution
India is facing an environmental crisis from anthropogenic pollution. While India has adopted policies (such as the National Clean Air Action Programme) to mitigate air pollution, the lack of scientific evidence is hindering the implementation and effectiveness of these policies. CSTEP established the Centre for Air Pollution Studies (CAPS) envisioning a combination of science-based knowledge, techno-economic assessment of mitigation options, as well as policy assessment and advocacy on various aspects of air pollution to reduce its impact on human health and the environment.