BS EDIT: Clean-up needed: India’s pollution fight stalls in red tape

By Business StandardPublished On Mar 27, 2025

Rising pollution, falling action

Air, water, and noise pollution are worsening, yet only 1% of FY25’s Rs 858 crore allocation has been spent

Key scheme stuck in limbo

The “Control of Pollution” scheme, with a Rs 3,072 crore outlay, awaits approvals—even as deadlines near

Air quality stats mislead

India’s global rank improved, but 13 of the world’s 20 most polluted cities are still Indian

Water crisis looms

India ranks 120 out of 122 globally on water quality. Nearly 70% of its sources are contaminated

Budget without execution

Delhi allocated Rs 506 crore to tackle pollution—but managing delivery will be the real test

Reform must match urgency

Timely approvals and clear accountability are essential for any clean-up to succeed