World Bank Partners with Haryana to Tackle Air Pollution

New Delhi: Environment, Forests and Wildlife Minister Rao Narbir Singh has expressed gratitude to the World Bank for its proactive initiative in combating air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR). The minister stated that the World Bank will support projects worth approximately Rs 3,650 crore aimed at reducing air pollution in Haryana.

The partnership involves the World Bank contributing 70 per cent of the project funding, while the Haryana state government will contribute the remaining 30 per cent. Additionally, it includes a grant-in-aid of more than Rs 80 crore from the World Bank. The Haryana Government is committed to making the state free from air pollution by 2030.

Rao Narbir Singh emphasized the need for proactive measures in reducing environmental pollution, citing India's success in adapting electric vehicles as an essential step. Plans include purchasing an additional 250-300 electric buses and expanding metro services, electric buses, and rapid rail systems to reduce conventional transport's impact.

He also mentioned that Sonepat has been included on the list of cities to be made air-pollution free apart from Faridabad and Gurugram. The Environment Minister will soon visit Saudi Arabia to observe its green wall and explore possibilities in establishing a similar project in the Aravalli region, aiming to maintain environmental balance.

According to Singh, environmental pollution has become a global issue, making it crucial to monitor and control air quality indexes in the future. He expressed concern over Delhi's frequent winter smog issues and highlighted Haryana's focus on tackling this problem.

The World Bank's cooperation is considered crucial for combating India's growing pollution concerns. With support from international bodies like the World Bank, governments can rely on comprehensive knowledge to address complex environmental challenges and foster sustainable development.