Delhi records slowest air quality deterioration in 7 years; Mumbai pollution doubles
• Delhi has experienced its slowest seasonal deterioration in air quality in seven years during the transition from September to October, with its average Air Quality Index (AQI) rising by 48.5%. In contrast, Mumbai's pollution levels have more than doubled, with an AQI increase of 105.1% over the same period. Official data categorises Mumbai's average AQI at 124 (moderate), while private sensors using the US AQI scale reported higher values, averaging 172 and fluctuating between 165 and
• Delhi's AQI stood at 164 on Monday morning, also in the moderate category, with PM2.5 identified as the dominant pollutant at most monitoring stations. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR to curb pollution. Additionally, toxic white foam has reappeared on the Yamuna River near Kalindi Kunj, highlighting ongoing environmental challenges.
Impact & Risks
The deteriorating air quality in Delhi and Mumbai poses health risks, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly. In Delhi, areas such as Jahangirpuri and Vivek Vihar recorded AQI levels in the 'poor' category, with values exceeding 200. Mumbai's pollution hotspots, including Bandra-Kurla Complex and Andheri East, reported AQI levels ranging from 162 to 229, indicating significant air pollution. The reappearance of toxic foam in the Yamuna River further underscores environmental hazards in Delhi-NCR. Prolonged exposure to high AQI levels can lead to respiratory distress, cardiovascular issues, and other health complications.
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