The Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) has criticized a recent report by a Swiss organization that labeled Begusarai as the world's most polluted city. BSPCB chairman, Devendra Kumar Shukla, denounced the report's methodology, claiming it demonstrated a bias favoring Western perspectives.
Shukla raised concerns over the report's narrow focus solely on PM 2.5 levels while neglecting other pollutants. He stressed the importance of a comprehensive analysis encompassing various pollutants such as PM 10, nitrogen oxide, sulphur dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide, ammonia, and lead. "When assessing air quality, it should be a holistic approach," Shukla emphasized.
Highlighting Begusarai's geographical location in the Indo-Gangetic plain, Shukla explained how the region's dry alluvial soil contributes to pollution through wind-blown dust. He acknowledged the significance of addressing anthropogenic emissions but cautioned against overlooking natural contributors to pollution.
Shukla further criticized the report for failing to consider ozone pollution, highlighting its detrimental effects on public health. Additionally, he pointed out discrepancies in data collection, noting that the report relied on information from only one monitoring station in Begusarai out of the four available.
Despite Begusarai's industrial presence along the northern bank of the Ganga, Shukla affirmed the BSPCB's commitment to improving air quality not only in Begusarai but also across the state.
The BSPCB's response underscores the complexities involved in assessing and addressing pollution issues, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive and unbiased methodologies in such evaluations.
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