Mumbai: Pollution in 16 areas in Mumbai was at worrying levels since Thursday evening, with the average air quality index (AQI) hovering around 190, close to the poor air category of 200-300. Eight of the 24 active monitoring stations—in Borivli East, Navy Nagar in Colaba, Malad West, Mazgaon, Chembur, Shivajinagar in Mankhurd, Kandivli West and Deonar —recorded AQIs between 235 and 290, while eight others had ‘unsatisfactory’ air (151-200 AQI, see graphic).
Mumbai’s air quality has been worsening since the onset of winter. On Tuesday, two areas fell in the ‘very poor’ category while five others were just marginally better. At the beginning of the month, 11 monitoring stations were in the 200-300 zone.
Even moderate levels of pollution can cause breathing difficulties in people with lung or heart disease, children and older adults. Health experts have advised citizens, particularly the elderly, young children and those who are immunocompromised, to limit outdoor activities during peak pollution hours, wear appropriate masks when stepping outside, and to ensure proper ventilation indoors.
Experts said that the current atmospheric conditions, particularly reduced wind speed associated with winter, have created the perfect environment for pollutants to remain suspended in the air. They said cooler air masses have effectively trapped warmer air from the sea, leading to minimal air circulation and pollutant dispersal across major suburbs. They suggested that these conditions will persist till wind patterns or temperatures change significantly.
Local authorities are implementing various measures to control pollution levels, including regular water sprinkling at construction sites, strict enforcement of dust control norms and increased monitoring of industrial emissions.
Alarming pollution levels in the city last year had prompted the central govt, multiple civic and state agencies, and Bombay high court to intervene and impose strict guidelines to improve the quality of air.
