According to the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago’s Air Quality Life Index (AQLI), residents of Dhenkanal could live about 2.9 years longer if World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines were met. This, along with other insightful details, was shared in a workshop organized by the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Dhenkanal and the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC-India) in Dhenkanal on 18^th October 2019. Dhenkanal has Angul and Talcher in its close vicinity, both of which are listed as non-attainment cities concerning ambient air quality under the National Clean Air Programme.

Sharing his insights on the impact of air pollution on human health, Dr. Jagadananda Tripathy, MD, State Executive Body Member Odisha Medical Services Authority (OMSA), said “Air pollution and human life expectancy are inversely proportional. Industrial emission, vehicular pollution and particulate matter emission due to mining activities in Angul and Talcher industrial belt are having their toll on the life expectancy of residents in Dhenkanal. There is a massive increase in cardiovascular diseases in the district in the last decade. Exposure to polluted air has both short- and long-term negative impacts on human health.”

Talking about how residents can play an active role in curbing air pollution during the workshop, Mr. Nirada Nanda, secretary of city-based civil society organization NAMI said, “Awareness is key to the war against air pollution. Increased pollution literacy will exert pressure on both policymakers and industries to enhance air quality”

Talking about the steps taken by the local administration, Mr. Bhabesh Kumar Nayak, ADM, Dhenkanal told, ‘’We are aware of the grim situation and district administration is taking all necessary steps to keep air pollution under control. We are planning for some awareness camps regarding this at different schools and colleges. Along with, the district administration is on its toe to curb vehicular pollution and pollution caused due to construction and demolition.’’

The workshop, meant to raise awareness about the impact of pollution on human health, was attended by more than 80 journalism students and representatives from civil society. All the participants were handed over a city-specific AQLI handout for increasing their awareness.