The first workshop in the series, titled “Air Pollution Decoded – Breaking Myths, Building Solutions,” was held on November 25, 2025, at Soch Hall, Rajiv Gandhi Renewable Energy Park, Gurugram.

The session sought to deepen public understanding of air pollution in the NCR region and move the conversation beyond the familiar cycle of seasonal alarm and short-term responses. The emphasis was on unpacking the structural and behavioural dimensions of the problem.

The keynote address by Ms. Anumita Roychowdhury from the Centre for Science and Environment played a central role in reframing the discussion. She challenged widely held perceptions, particularly around the role of farm fires, highlighting that while they contribute to seasonal spikes, they are not the primary driver of year-round pollution. Her data-driven insights on dust—accounting for a significant share of PM2.5 levels—shifted attention towards local and systemic factors.

The discussion also brought into focus critical infrastructure gaps in Gurugram. Comparisons with Tier-2 cities underscored the relative inadequacy of public transport systems, while rapid growth in vehicle registrations emerged as a key concern.

The panel discussion that followed broadened the lens further, covering public health implications, the need for more walkable and people-centric urban design, and the role of individual behaviour in contributing to and mitigating the crisis. The presence of RWAs, medical professionals, sustainability advocates, and policy experts created a rich, multi-dimensional dialogue.

Overall, the workshop succeeded in moving participants towards a more informed understanding of air pollution, while also reinforcing the importance of both policy-level interventions and citizen-led action.