Guwahati air quality improves, Assam CM credits focused govt interventions

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced that the state government’s targeted measures have delivered significant improvements in Guwahati’s air quality.

Speaking on National Pollution Control Day, the CM highlighted the administration’s efforts in waste management, vehicular emission control, and promotion of electric mobility, aimed at creating a cleaner and more sustainable city.

In a post on X, Sarma wrote, “Guwahati is breathing easier today thanks to our focused efforts in air-quality management. As we observe #NationalPollutionControlDay, learn about our initiatives to build a cleaner, greener Guwahati for future generations.”

The CM shared that particulate matter (PM) levels dropped from 119 micrograms per cubic metre to 103 during the 2024-25 fiscal year, reflecting tangible improvement in air quality. He also noted that Assam’s ranking in the Swachh Vayu Survekshan 2025 survey improved from 38th to 21st place, signaling progress in pollution control initiatives.

Sarma highlighted the expansion of cleaner public transport, mentioning that 256 electric buses and 100 CNG buses are now operational in Guwahati, reducing dependency on conventional fossil-fuel vehicles. He urged residents to participate in greener initiatives and limit personal vehicle usage, stressing that collective action is essential to maintain these environmental gains.

The Chief Minister said the government’s approach combines policy enforcement with citizen engagement, targeting major sources of pollution, including vehicle emissions, industrial discharge, and solid waste. “Our goal is to make Guwahati not just economically thriving, but also environmentally resilient, so that future generations inherit a city they can be proud of,” he added.

Environmental experts welcomed the progress, noting that although challenges remain, Guwahati is steadily moving toward cleaner air. Assam’s initiatives aim to set a benchmark for sustainable urban development in the Northeast.