In a remarkable turnaround, Kanpur — once ranked among the most polluted cities in India — has now secured the 5th position in the Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2024–25, the national clean air survey conducted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This is a major leap from its 17th position last year, highlighting the city’s focused efforts on improving air quality and public health.
Over 110 hectares of land were reforested using the dense Japanese Miyawaki method, particularly in encroached green belt areas. These micro forests, with their dense, fast-growing trees, are highly effective in absorbing pollutants and improving oxygen levels.
Prominent public spaces like Moti Jheel, Nana Rao Park, and Kargil Park underwent upgrades, including landscaping with native trees, installing air-purifying green zones, and using recycled materials to beautify surroundings.
The deployment of mechanical road sweepers, fogging machines, water sprinklers, and anti-smog guns across the city has helped reduce suspended dust particles, especially near traffic-heavy zones.
Over ₹60 crore was invested in air quality-related initiatives, including non-metal road surfacing, plantation drives, real-time air monitoring systems, and public awareness campaigns.
Kanpur’s rise in the national air quality rankings is a powerful example of what focused urban intervention, citizen participation, and environmental commitment can achieve.
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