Bengaluru: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has advised all the southern states, including Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, to call a joint meeting of the southern states for curbing transboundary air pollution. This move is set to be a great effort to create a regional action plan for the improvement of the air quality.
Recently, the CPCB held discussions with the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Kerala, along with the Pollution Control Committee of Puducherry. Officials emphasized that air pollution, particularly from industries and thermal power plants, can travel across state borders, making regional cooperation essential.
“All six administrations have already prepared their state action plans,” a source said. However, to ensure better results, states have been urged to work together on a regional strategy. If any issues remain unresolved, states can seek help from central authorities, including the Union Environment Ministry.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had earlier directed states to allocate budgets for air pollution control measures. Details on compliance with this order will be reviewed in the next tribunal hearing.
The new initiative is a positive step towards controlling air pollution; the southern states are aiming to mitigate pollution levels in the entire area with coordination so that public health can be protected and the atmosphere can be healthy for all.
