The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has announced a collaboration with Koo App to raise awareness about the importance of reducing air pollution and creating a cleaner environment. The collaboration will reach a broader and more diverse audience, including first-time social media users, by providing content in local languages on pollution levels and potential solutions.
IIT Delhi, in collaboration with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), has deployed sensors across India to monitor air pollution levels. To receive pollution-related data, IIT Delhi will create an API that will be integrated with the Koo API. This data will then be shared with platform users in their native languages via interactive videos and visual content.
Dedicated handle to raise awareness about air pollution
Koo will launch a dedicated handle to raise awareness about air pollution, as well as provide advice from medical experts on how to protect oneself. A partnership like this one is critical for raising public awareness about pollution and its effects on society.
This joint collaboration between IIT Delhi and Koo will begin as a six-month pilot study to identify specific sources of pollution, assisting policymakers and the government with data-driven insights and evidence-based policymaking.
Professor Sagnik Dey, Institute Chair Professor, Centre for Atmospheric Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi believes air pollution is the largest environmental and health concern in India. “Without public support and mass awareness, the issue of air pollution cannot be resolved. I am excited to be part of this pilot project, which will explore people’s perception about air pollution and promote clean air practices. This will allow us to develop a more effective communications strategy and increase people’s participation.”
Aprameya Radhakrishna, Co-founder and CEO, Koo said, “Social media is for public good. As a responsible platform which has raised awareness on issues of public concern, Koo is best positioned to work jointly with IIT Delhi to address the issue of air pollution. Through the Multi-lingual Kooing (MLK) feature, Koo can help to build awareness at the individual, community and government levels. Together, we can ensure that concerns related to air pollution cease to be a part of our children’s future.”
