In a groundbreaking effort to tackle air pollution, Clean Air Jharkhand today launched its Vayu Veer program, a unique initiative empowering youth and women from marginalized communities to lead the fight for cleaner air in Jamshedpur. The program, focused on those most affected by air pollution but often excluded from the discourse, marks a significant shift towards community-driven solutions for cleaner air.
The initiative was highlighted by the release of a community-driven citizen science report, "Month in My Life," which involved personal air quality monitoring by four dedicated Vayu Veers—Rinki Pal, Arpita Soren, Som Kansari, and Varsha. These individuals, hailing from families engaged in rag picking, domestic work, and other forms of labor, recorded their air quality data over a month from December 12, 2023, to January 10, 2024. The findings from this period revealed alarming levels of air pollution.
Throughout the month, all four Vayu Veers consistently encountered air quality levels that exceeded national standards for 24-hour PM2.5 (60 µg/m³) and PM10 (100 µg/m³). The highest daily concentration of PM2.5 recorded was a staggering 607 µg/m³, nearly 10 times the permissible limit, observed by Som Kansari in Sidu Kanu Basti on December 22. Arpita Soren recorded a maximum concentration of 267.69 µg/m³ on January 10, Rinki Pal noted 291.39 µg/m³ on December 20, and Varsha’s highest was 309.90 µg/m³ on December 18.
The report further analyzed air quality data using the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) Air Quality Index (AQI) categories, revealing that none of the Vayu Veers experienced "Good" or "Satisfactory" air quality. Most days fell into "Poor," "Very Poor," "Severe," or even "Beyond Limit" categories, underscoring the severe health impacts on these vulnerable populations and the urgent need for localized pollution reduction strategies.
Dr. Nirmal Shukla, a member of Clean Air Jharkhand and Secretary of Mahila Kalyan Samiti, emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, "It's crucial to engage and involve communities most affected by air pollution. The Vayu Veer program focuses on this, highlighting the need for a comprehensive plan to address pollution sources and public participation."
Anjali Bose, founder of Mahila Kalyan Samiti, reiterated the program's goals, stating, "The 'Vayu Veers' will continue to share their experiences and demands with a broader audience. Our goal is to raise awareness about air pollution and prioritize clean air initiatives."
Rinku Pal, one of the Vayu Veers, expressed a newfound awareness of pollution sources in her environment, while Arpita Soren shared how the program had changed her family's habits to reduce indoor pollution. Som Kansari highlighted the importance of raising awareness in his community about the severe impact of air pollution on health.
The Vayu Veer program represents a significant step towards empowering marginalized communities to take the lead in addressing air pollution. By providing tools and training for air quality monitoring and advocacy, the program aims to elevate the voices of these communities in the air pollution discourse.
Clean Air Jharkhand, alongside the Vayu Veers, remains committed to this vital work, engaging with communities, policymakers, and authorities to ensure a cleaner, healthier future for all.
