World Bank Approves Major Funding to Combat India’s Air Pollution Crisis

The World Bank has approved significant new funding to fight air pollution in two Indian states. This financing targets Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. The goal is to improve air quality for over 270 million residents. The decision was announced recently.These projects are part of a larger regional air quality program. They aim to make both states more attractive for business and job creation. According to World Bank officials, tackling transboundary pollution is a key focus.

Uttar Pradesh Clean Air Program Details

The Uttar Pradesh Clean Air Management Program (UPCAMP) has a budget of $299.66 million. It will expand the state’s existing Clean Air Plan. Funding will target transport, agriculture, and industry sectors.A major goal is helping 3.9 million households access clean cooking solutions. The project will promote electric mobility. It plans to introduce 15,000 electric three-wheelers and 500 electric buses in key cities.The program adopts an “airshed” approach. This means it coordinates with neighboring states to control cross-border emissions. Task team leaders noted it will also incentivize farmers to use fertilizer more efficiently.

Haryana’s Sustainable Development Operation

The Haryana Clean Air Project for Sustainable Development has a $300 million budget. It will support the state’s own action plan to cut pollution. A portion will fund new air quality monitoring systems.Investments will focus on clean transport in cities like Gurugram and Faridabad. This includes new electric bus and three-wheeler services. Improved connectivity is expected to create better job access, especially for women.The project also aims to mobilize over $127 million in private capital. It will support small industries adopting cleaner technologies. Furthermore, it promotes machinery to productively reuse agricultural waste like paddy stubble.

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This World Bank financing represents a critical step in a coordinated regional fight for cleaner air. The success of these programs in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana could provide a model for other polluted regions globally.

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Q1: How much funding did the World Bank approve?

The World Bank approved approximately $600 million in total. This includes $299.66 million for Uttar Pradesh and $300 million for Haryana’s clean air projects.

Q2: What is the main goal of these projects?

The primary goal is to significantly improve air quality in both states. The initiatives aim to benefit the health and livelihoods of over 270 million people living there.

Q3: Which areas will receive the most focus?

Key focus sectors are transportation, agriculture, and industry. Specific measures include promoting electric vehicles and helping farmers manage crop waste better.

Q4: How will this help with business and jobs?

By improving air quality, the states become more attractive for investment. The projects also directly fund cleaner technologies for small businesses, supporting economic growth.

Q5: What is an “airshed” approach?

An airshed approach treats pollution as a regional issue, not just a city problem. It encourages states to work together to control emissions that travel across borders.