Agartala Installs New Air Quality Monitors to Fight Pollution

Efforts to Improve Air Quality in Tripura

The city of Agartala in Tripura has taken a significant step to combat air pollution by installing two real-time air quality monitoring systems. These systems are connected to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) servers, allowing citizens to check pollution levels through the Sameer app on their mobile phones.

Why Monitoring is Important

Agartala often experiences high levels of particulate matter, especially during the summer and dry seasons. The air quality index (AQI) improves during the monsoon season due to reduced dispersion of pollutants. Urbanisation is a key factor contributing to the elevated AQI during dry months.

Action Plan to Control Pollution

An action plan has been developed and is being implemented by various departments, including the Transport and Urban Development Departments. One critical measure is the operation of Pollution Under Control (PUC) centres to address vehicular pollution.

Future Plans

The Tripura State Pollution Control Board will conduct a source apportionment study to identify the origins of particulate matter. This study will help revise and improve the current action plan. Additionally, three more air quality monitoring stations are being set up under the National Ambient Monitoring Stations programme.

Statements from Dr. Bishu Karmakar

Dr. Bishu Karmakar, Member Secretary of the Tripura State Pollution Control Board, emphasized the importance of monitoring both indoor and outdoor air pollution. He stated, “We have installed two real-time air quality monitoring systems, which are connected to the central pollution control board servers. From anywhere, any citizen can observe the pollution level.”

He also mentioned the need for PUC centres to combat vehicular pollution and the upcoming source apportionment study to better understand the origins of particulate matter.