Regarding need to sanction a special package to address severe air pollution in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh- laid

Regarding need to sanction a special package to address severe air pollution in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh- laid SHRIMATI DAGGUBATI PURANDESWARI (RAJAHMUNDRY): I wish to draw the attention of the Government to the severe air pollution in Rajahmundry and the structural disparity in funding under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). Despite (cid:109) Rajahmundry consistently recording PM10 levels (70?75 g/m³) above national standards?often exceeding those of Vijayawada?it (cid:110) (cid:110) has received only 9.55 crore compared to Vijayawada?s 130.35 crore. This 16-fold disparity exists because allocations currently rely on administrative classification rather than actual pollution severity. Rajahmundry has already utilised nearly 100% of its limited funds. This inadequacy is critical in view of the forthcoming Godavari Pushkaralu, expected to attract 8 crore pilgrims. The inevitable surge in diesel transport, generators, and road dust will drastically worsen the AQI, posing severe health risks to devotees. Furthermore, unlike Vijayawada, Rajahmundry has not been provided with scientific Source Apportionment studies to guide its planning. I urge the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate (cid:110) Change to Sanction a Special Clean Air Package of 150 crore for Rajahmundry to implement dust suppression, traffic management, and emission controls specifically for the Pushkaralu; Commission scientific studies for the city; and Realign NCAP funding to be linked to pollution severity and mitigation requirements rather than population criteria alone. This is essential for environmental equity and public health.