International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development

About International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development:

• It is an intergovernmental knowledge and learning centre working on behalf of the people of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH).
• It was formally established and inaugurated on 5 December 1983.
• Mission: To build and share knowledge that drives regional policy and action and attracts investment that enables the diverse countries and communities of the HKH to transition to greener, more inclusive, and climate resilient development.
• Member countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.
• Functions
  • It serves the region through information and knowledge generation and sharing to find innovative solutions to critical mountain problems.
  • It bridges science with policies and on-the-ground practices.
  • It provides a regional platform where experts, planners, policymakers, and practitioners can exchange ideas and perspectives towards the achievement of sustainable mountain development.
• Headquarter: Kathmandu, Nepal

Key points about Air Quality Dashboard

• The dashboard combines ground sensor data with satellite imagery to provide a comprehensive view of air pollution across local, sub-regional and regional scales.
• Among its tools is a dynamic timelapse powered by the Weather Research and Forecasting model coupled with Chemistry (WRF-Chem).
• This model reveals the alarming spread of PM2.5 plumes across the region, including hotspots like Lahore, New Delhi and Kolkata.
• The WRF-Chem model on the dashboard allows users to explore the interaction between weather patterns and air pollution sources, providing insights into pollution outbreaks and trends.
• It integrates emissions data at both local and regional levels, offering a clearer picture of pollution dynamics across borders. Users can also access two-day forecasts, enabling communities, policymakers and researchers to anticipate air quality conditions.

 Q1: What is Particulate matter?

It contains microscopic solids or liquid droplets that are so small that they can be inhaled and cause serious health problems. Some particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter can get deep into your lungs and some may even get into your bloodstream.

News: ICIMOD launches air quality dashboard to track and forecast pollution across Indo-Gangetic plain