With temperatures plunging, the city’s air quality has sharply declined, pushing pollution levels into the “poor” and “very poor” categories. Early morning Air Quality Index (AQI) readings in several areas surged past 250, posing significant health risks to residents.
According to Central Pollution Control Board data, Civil Lines reported the worst air quality with an AQI of 261, closely followed by Mahal at 258. Other areas like Ramnagar (247) and Ambazari (217) also recorded alarming pollution levels.
Experts attribute this spike to the combination of cold air, stagnant wind conditions, and suspended dust particles.Visibility throughout the city has dropped due to smog formation. Environmentalist Leena Buddhe explained that smog intensifies when vehicle emissions mix with fog and cold air, trapping pollutants near the ground.
She noted, “This situation is most hazardous at dawn because pollutants do not disperse easily.” Buddhe advised morning walkers to limit outdoor exposure, wear masks, and urged vulnerable groups—such as asthma patients, senior citizens, and children—to take extra precautions.
Maharashtra Pollution Control Board regional officer Hema Deshpande highlighted winter inversion as a major factor. “Warm air fails to rise, causing dust and pollutants to settle and mix with cold air near the surface, leading to higher pollution levels in the early mornings,” she explained.
Related Articles
-
-
-
-
