Mumbai’s air quality ‘unhealthy’ with AQI 195: Report

Poisar river, Malad. File Pic

The AQI increased by 38 points on Saturday as compared to AQI 157 on Friday.

The report also stated that PM 2.5 and PM 10 concentration in Mumbai are 139 and 163 respectively. According to Swiss organisation iQAir PM 2.5 concentration in Mumbai on Saturday is 15.5 times above the WHO annual air quality guideline value.

Following are the location-wise AQI numbers in Mumbai.

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is an air pollutant that is a concern for people's health when levels in air are high. PM2.5 is tiny particles in the air that reduce visibility and cause the air to appear hazy when levels are elevated. Outdoor PM2.5 levels are most likely to be elevated on days with little or no wind or air mixing.

In view of that, it is advisable to stay indoors as far as practicable. Do not forget to wear a mask while stepping out. Try to keep windows and doors closed to protect your family and yourself from pollutants. Usage of air purifier is also recommended.

Air Quality Index (AQI) is a yardstick to measure the quality of air in a given area. It is measured from 0 to 500. A higher value of AQI denotes a greater level of pollutants in the air and hence a more severe impact on health.

The AQI index is divided into six categories, each corresponding to a different level of health concern.

- Green (0-50) - Good

- Yellow (51-100) - Moderate

- Orange (1001-150) - Unhealthy for sensitive groups

- Red (151-200) - Unhealthy

- Purple (201-300) - Very unhealthy

- Maroon (301 and higher) - Hazardous