The World Bank has granted over $600 million to finance ambitious clean air initiatives in Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, aimed at reducing pollution in one of the world’s most affected regions. The financing is estimated to have an impact on air quality outcomes for over 270 million people living in the Indo-Gangetic Plains and surrounding regions.
Haryana will get a $300 million loan for its Clean Air Project, which aims to boost the state’s multi-sector action plan to reduce emissions from transportation, agriculture, industry, and developing urban areas. The program aims to increase air quality monitoring coverage, accelerate the adoption of electric buses and three-wheelers in Gurugram, Sonipat, and Faridabad, and help small enterprises transition to cleaner production methods. To prevent stubble burning, sustainable agricultural residue management will be promoted.
The World Bank described the approvals as a milestone, noting that Indian states are implementing airshed-based techniques that address pollution sources together rather than in isolation. According to the Bank, enhanced air quality can reduce health risks, increase productivity, and promote green employment, particularly among women and youth. Uttar Pradesh will launch a separate $300 million initiative adapted to local conditions. Programmes funded by the United Kingdom and Switzerland will provide additional support.
