In a major boost for environmental policy and sustainable development, the World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors recently approved financing for critical programmes that aim to improve air quality in Haryana and neighbouring Uttar Pradesh. This initiative reflects growing global recognition of the urgent need to tackle air pollution, which has significant public health and economic consequences, particularly in northern India.
The approvals will support a range of innovative measures designed to reduce particulate matter and other harmful pollutants by promoting cleaner industrial processes, enhancing monitoring systems, and encouraging community-driven air quality initiatives. For Haryana, the programme is expected to complement ongoing state-level efforts to reduce emissions from vehicles, industry, and agricultural residue burning. The financing will enable the adoption of newer technologies and infrastructure upgrades that align with both national clean-air mandates and international best practices.
Officials highlight that while Haryana has seen progress in reducing seasonal pollution caused by stubble burning and other sources, persistent air quality challenges require comprehensive action across sectors. The World Bank-supported programmes are being designed in consultation with state planners, scientific experts, and local communities in order to implement context-specific solutions that balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.
This multi-year partnership is also expected to include capacity building within state environmental agencies, enabling them to better enforce standards, analyse air quality data, and engage in regional cooperation with neighbouring states. The financing from the World Bank marks a critical step in Haryana’s ongoing commitment to cleaner air and healthier living conditions for its residents.
