Every year the 2nd of December is observed as National Pollution Control Day. This day is celebrated to raise awareness about pollution and its harmful effects on health and the environment. It serves as a reminder of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, one of India’s worst industrial disasters, which occurred on December 2-3, 1984. As we celebrate National Pollution Control Day 2024, let's take a look at how currently Mumbai is grappling with air pollution increase and what are the major factors contributing to it. Mumbai – India's financial capital which is known for its iconic skyline, bustling streets, and beautiful coastal views. However, the city is currently facing a serious deterioration in its air quality. In recent years, the pollution levels in Mumbai have been on the rise. As of late November 2024, Mumbai ranked 159th among the most polluted cities in the world. The city's Air Quality Index reached 154, which falls into the "poor" category. The AQI in Mumbai is now 1.14 times higher than the average for Maharashtra, marking a concerning decline in air quality. Though this number fluctuates, it has remained consistently unhealthy for the city. But why is this happening? What’s causing Mumbai's pollution to rise so rapidly? Watch video.
01 December,2024 05:05 PM IST
As the air quality in Delhi continues to worsen, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-IV restrictions were implemented from November 18 to combat the pollution crisis. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated this plan to reduce harmful pollution levels in Delhi-NCR. Key measures include banning non-essential trucks from entering Delhi, except for those carrying essential goods or providing important services. In addition, the Delhi government has suspended in-person classes for all students, except for those in classes 10 and 12, to protect their health. The Stage-IV action plan also includes other steps like increasing the use of air purifiers and limiting outdoor activities. The CAQM is closely monitoring air quality levels and will continue to review the situation, taking further action if necessary to improve conditions.
18 November,2024 03:04 PM IST
Mumbai woke up to a foggy and hazy morning on Sunday, November 17, with a thick layer of mist covering the city. The Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a level of 179, indicating a moderate level of pollution. Visuals from Marine Drive showed people out for their morning walks amid the dense fog. While many residents continued their routines, jogging and exercising, the pollution did raise concerns, particularly for those with respiratory issues. While the pollution level is not extremely high, experts caution that it could cause discomfort for vulnerable groups, including people with breathing problems. Authorities are advising everyone to take precautions, especially those with health concerns.
17 November,2024 12:28 PM IST
As winter approaches, Lahore, Pakistan, has become the world’s most polluted city, with its AQI soaring to 1,067 on Nov 2, and 553 on Nov 9, categorized as ‘hazardous.’ The severe pollution, largely attributed to kiln emissions and crop burning, has prompted the government to close schools and enforce work-from-home mandates to safeguard public health. Efforts to mitigate the crisis include the introduction of eco-friendly kiln technologies and the establishment of a ‘Smog War Room’ in Punjab, where an eight-department committee coordinates response measures. Environmental experts emphasize the need for robust data to ensure sustainable solutions. The winter season, with its colder temperatures, exacerbates smog in South Asia, making air pollution a persistent health threat in the region. Immediate actions and long-term strategies are crucial to improving air quality and protecting public health.
09 November,2024 12:08 PM IST
A thick layer of smog has settled over Marine Drive, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching a concerning 208, categorizing it as 'Poor.' Each year, the aftermath of Diwali fireworks draws attention to the city's deteriorating air quality. Residents are increasingly alarmed, as firecrackers contribute significantly to pollution levels. One Mumbai resident pointed out, "So many people are bursting firecrackers, and a lot of construction is going on, which is why the pollution is increasing." The combination of festive celebrations and ongoing construction exacerbates the already precarious air quality, prompting calls for greater awareness and action to mitigate the impact of such activities on health and the environment.
03 November,2024 11:05 AM IST
The odd-even scheme in Delhi is about to make a comeback. In Delhi, the air quality is in the 'Severe' category as per the Central Pollution Control Board. To tackle the Delhi air pollution, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on November 06 announced the implementation of the Odd-Even scheme. The Odd-Even scheme will be applicable for one week from 13th to 20th November. Cars whose number plates end with odd numbers – 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 – will be allowed to ply on odd-numbered dates. On the other hand, vehicles whose number plates end with even numbers – 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 – will be allowed to ply on even-numbered dates. Stubble burning in the neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana is credited for creating smog in Delhi.
06 November,2023 06:05 PM IST
Delhi and Mumbai AQI have further slumped to ‘severe’ and ‘very poor’ respectively. On November 6th, a layer of haze enveloped Mumbai as air quality deteriorated. The overall AQI of the city stood at 301. Global warming and natural seasonal transitions have been credited for Mumbai’s smog. People have been advised to avoid prolonged outdoor visits. On the other hand, in Delhi, The air quality in Delhi is in the 'Severe' category as per the Central Pollution Control Board. While stubble burning in the neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana are credited for creating smog in Delhi, in Punjab’s Firozpur, the stubble burning continued.
06 November,2023 01:38 PM IST
Delhi air pollution has led to a deteriorating situation in the state. The drone shots displayed the severity of pollution in the capital as it was concealed under a heavy haze blanket. Delhi continued to remain shrouded in a layer of haze as air quality deteriorated on November 05. The air quality in Delhi has been recorded in the 'Severe' category. AQI stood at 482, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). People have been advised to avoid prolonged outdoor visits. Smog has filled the atmosphere and pollution has increased to a great extent. People are finding it difficult to breathe and suffer from pain in their eyes due to the smog.
05 November,2023 03:03 PM IST
The air quality in Delhi remained in the ‘poor’ category as per SAFAR on October 27. Delhi Minister Atishi on mentioned that there has not been any data that can tell the sources lead to what amounts to the severe pollution in the National Capital. However, in 2020, Atishi revealed the data claiming that the pollution in Delhi is directly correlated with stubble burning in Haryana and Punjab. Listen in to the minister herself as she points out the issues behind Delhi's air quality.
27 October,2023 12:14 PM IST | Mumbai
The air quality in the national capital deteriorated to ‘very poor’ category. The overall Air Quality Index stood at 306 on October 23. Delhiites complained of several health issues due to rising pollution.
23 October,2023 03:54 PM IST | MumbaiADVERTISEMENT
