Gujarat Launches ‘Lake and Air Watch’ Initiative to Monitor AQI and Lake Health

The Gujarat state government has launched the ‘Lake and Air Watch’ initiative to monitor and improve air quality and lake health across urban areas in the state. This project will be implemented by the Gujarat Urban Development Mission (GUDM) under the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department. Under this initiative air quality monitoring systems will be installed in 17 municipal corporations. And also the152 municipal areas to provide real time Air Quality Index (AQI) data.

Lake and Air Watch Initiative Gujarat and Its Objective

The Lake and Air Watch Gujarat initiative aims to address environmental problems caused by rapid urbanization.

State Authorities have observed that growing urban populations have led to declining water quality in lakes.

And also reduced the groundwater recharge and worsening air pollution levels.

To tackle these challenges the project will integrate monitoring systems across multiple government departments.

This coordination will help authorities identify environmental issues early and implement timely remedial measures to improve environmental conditions.

Real Time Air Quality Monitoring in Gujarat Cities

A main part of component of the Lake and Air Watch Gujarat initiative is the installation of air quality monitoring stations across urban areas.

These stations will continuously measure pollution levels and generate real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) information.

This monitoring systems will be set up in 17 municipal corporations and 152 municipal areas and also ensuring wider coverage across cities and towns.

If AQI levels exceed safe limits the system will automatically generate alerts so that authorities can take immediate action for betterment.

Satellite Technology for Monitoring Lake Health

Another key feature of the Lake and Air Watch Gujarat initiative is the use of satellite technology to monitor urban lakes.

The Satellite imagery will help authorities analyse lake areas, detect pollution levels, identify waste accumulation and will the monitor algae growth.

Also by analyzing these environmental indicators authorities can assess the overall health of lakes and generate alerts for necessary conservation efforts.

This approach will help address common issues such as water pollution, siltation and declining water quality in urban lakes.

Budget and Role of Gujarat Urban Development Mission

The Lake and Air Watch Gujarat initiative will be implemented with an estimated provision of ₹10 crore.

The Gujarat Urban Development Mission (GUDM) will oversee the project and ensure coordination between various departments involved in environmental monitoring.

Through this initiative the state government aims to strengthen environmental protection measures while promoting sustainable urban development.

Question

1. Which state launched the ‘Lake and Air Watch’ initiative to monitor air quality and lake health?
A. Maharashtra
B. Rajasthan
C. Gujarat
D. Karnataka