Angul , September 11, 2025: In a proud moment for Odisha, Angul has been ranked third in the National Clean Air City Awards 2025, recognizing its remarkable efforts to tackle air pollution and improve urban air quality. The announcement was made during the Swachh Vayu Survekshan & Wetland Cities Recognition Ceremony held in New Delhi, hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
The award, presented by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, comes with a cash prize of ₹12.5 lakh and serves as a recognition of Angul’s determination to build a cleaner, healthier environment for its residents.
Turning the Tide: How Angul Fought Air Pollution
Known for its industrial presence, Angul has long faced challenges related to air quality. However, over the past few years, the city has taken proactive steps to address these issues.
Among the key changes that helped Angul secure its top-three spot are:
- Limiting the entry of heavy trucks into city areas — a major move to reduce dust and emissions
- Upgrading roads and traffic systems to cut down vehicular congestion
- Running public awareness campaigns to encourage cleaner practices among citizens
- Monitoring industrial emissions more strictly through local enforcement efforts
These steps, combined with community engagement, have led to a noticeable improvement in the city’s air — not just in statistics, but in daily life.
Odisha’s Green Momentum: More Cities Join the Race
Angul wasn’t the only Odisha city making headlines this year. The state’s capital, Bhubaneswar, climbed to 5th place in the category of cities with populations between 3 to 10 lakh, improving from its 7th rank last year.
Meanwhile, Talcher, another industrial town from Angul district, held onto its 4th position in the under-3-lakh population category, showing consistent performance in air quality management.
Together, these rankings reflect Odisha’s growing focus on cleaner cities and sustainable development, setting an example for other states to follow.
Swachh Vayu Survekshan
The Swachh Vayu Survekshan is an annual ranking system introduced under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). It assesses cities based on:
- Reduction in air pollutants
- Implementation of clean transportation and energy practices
- Community participation and public awareness
- Innovation in sustainable urban planning
It’s part of a broader effort by the Government of India to make clean air a right, not a privilege, and to encourage healthy, livable cities.
A Breath of Fresh Air for the Future
Angul’s rise in the rankings — after previously placing in the top cities in 2023 — shows that consistent effort and smart policy-making can drive real change. The city’s recognition also highlights what’s possible when local governments, industries, and communities come together with a shared goal: cleaner air and healthier lives.
As Odisha continues to invest in green infrastructure, promote electric mobility, and educate the public on environmental responsibility, its cities are well on their way to becoming leaders in clean urban living.
Angul’s third-place finish in the 2025 National Clean Air City Awards is more than just a title — it’s a symbol of transformation. From industrial town to clean air champion, Angul has shown that progress is possible when cities prioritize the well-being of both people and the planet.
With more cities like Bhubaneswar and Talcher following suit, Odisha is writing a new chapter in sustainable urban development — one breath at a time.