Mumbai chokes as AQI plummets to hazardous 263 overnight
Mumbai's air quality took a dramatic turn for the worse on Friday morning, with several areas experiencing severe pollution. The Air Quality Index (AQI) plunged to an unhealthy level of 263, marking a steep fall from earlier good to moderate readings.
According to Weather Underground, which publishes AQI data for Mumbai, Parel-Bhoiwada recorded the highest AQI at 320, followed by Deonar (319) and Colaba (318). These readings indicate severe air pollution in these areas. Residents across the city woke up to clear skies overshadowed by a thick layer of smog. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported significantly reduced visibility due to smog in the early hours.
Several prominent localities also reported AQI levels in the severe range. Vile Parle West recorded 313, while BKC stood at 310. Kandivali East was one of the few areas with a moderate AQI of 93. Other western suburbs fell under the poor or severe brackets, with many residents reporting hazy horizons and visibly poor air quality. The city's skyline appeared smudged even after sunrise.
The sharp decline in air quality has raised concerns among residents and environmentalists. According to AQI.in's classification, readings between 0-50 are 'Good,' 51-100 'Moderate,' 101-150 'Poor,' 151-200 'Unhealthy,' and anything above 200 is deemed 'Severe' or 'Hazardous.' Mumbai's AQI of 263 falls into the 'Unhealthy' category, indicating a significant health risk for residents.
