Odisha to Launch State Clean Air Programme in 12 Cities

Bhubaneswar: Building on the success of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), the Odisha government is set to introduce a State Clean Air Programme (SCAP) covering 12 cities across the state.

The initiative, with a five-year plan and an estimated budget of ₹150 crore, will target cities such as Jharsuguda, Brajrajnagar, Belpahad, Bonai, Rajgangpur, Keonjhar, Joda, and Barbil. Puri and Berhampur, though not industrial hubs, have also been included due to their deteriorating air quality.

The programme aims to curb pollution through measures such as reducing garbage burning, controlling road dust, managing construction debris, and promoting the use of electric vehicles. Encouraging cycling, launching awareness campaigns, conducting workshops, and ensuring citizen participation are also part of the plan.

Currently, seven Odisha cities—Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Angul, Talcher, Balasore, and Kalinganagar—are covered under NCAP. Improved air quality levels in Angul, Talcher, Bhubaneswar, and Cuttack have prompted the state government to extend similar initiatives under SCAP.

To strengthen pollution control, the Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) has signed an agreement with IIT Bhubaneswar for real-time monitoring of fly ash emissions from industries. In addition, a citizen-reporting app is expected to be launched within six months, enabling residents to report violations. The system will use advanced tools such as drones and QR codes to track fly ash from release to disposal.