Mumbai witnessed a positive shift in its average Air Quality Index (AQI) on Sunday, registering a significant improvement from 196 (considered ‘close to poor’) to 152, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category. The AQI measures the concentration of carcinogenic particulate matter (PM 2.5) in the air. Meteorological experts attribute this improvement to the influence of easterly winds from the coast, contributing to drier atmospheric conditions.
Experts explain that over the past two days, the coastal air had high moisture content, elevating Mumbai’s average air quality to the higher end of the moderate level (196). Low wind speeds combined with moisture resulted in the suspension of smoke and dust from various sources, such as vehicles, industries, and construction sites, within the city instead of dispersing.
Several key areas, notably Malad west and Bandra-Kurla Complex, experienced AQI levels in the ‘poor’ range, causing discomfort among Mumbaikars, especially those engaged in strenuous activities and individuals with respiratory health concerns. Areas with AQI hovering towards the ‘higher moderate’ or ‘poor’ range included Sewri, Mindspace in Malad, Kherwadi in Bandra, Navy Nagar in Colaba, and Borivali east. On Friday, eight out of the 28 areas equipped with air quality monitoring stations displayed ‘poor’ AQI levels.