Residents of Nagpur are facing a renewed air quality crisis as levels of dangerous fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, have surged dramatically after a brief period of improvement. The spike, recorded over the Sunday night period, has triggered breathing difficulties for at-risk individuals and raised alarms among health professionals.
Nighttime Pollution Peaks Across Monitoring Stations
Data from the city's Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Systems (CAAQMS) revealed severe pollution levels. The Ambazari station recorded the highest PM2.5 concentration at 306 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³), firmly placing it in the 'poor' air quality category. The situation was similarly grim at Ram Nagar, where levels hit 301 µg/m³.
Other areas also showed concerning readings. The Civil Lines station reported an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 128, with PM2.5 touching 290 µg/m³. Interestingly, Mahal, typically one of the city's most polluted zones, recorded the lowest figures among these hotspots, with an AQI of 114 and PM2.5 at 218 µg/m³.
What's Causing the Dangerous Spike?
Environmental experts point to a combination of local sources and unfavorable weather conditions. The presence of dust is being linked to meteorological phenomena like temperature inversion, sharp drops in temperature, and fog. Simultaneously, smoke pollution is believed to originate from the burning of dry waste, articles, or wood, often by people compelled to stay outdoors during the cold night hours.
Calm wind conditions have exacerbated the problem by preventing the dispersion of these pollutants. This has allowed the fine, hazardous particles to remain suspended close to ground level, where people breathe.
Nagpur Outpaces Mumbai and Nashik in Pollution Levels
According to a bulletin released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on Monday evening, Nagpur's overall AQI from Sunday 9 PM to Monday 9 AM was 140, categorized as 'moderate'. However, this average figure masks the severe nighttime spikes and is notably higher than other major cities in Maharashtra.
Nagpur's AQI of 140 surpassed Mumbai's reading of 121 and Nashik's 120 for the same period, highlighting a more acute localized problem.
Health Advisory for Vulnerable Groups
Medical authorities have advised caution, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Exposure to PM2.5, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, is especially harmful. Experts recommend minimizing outdoor activities during late evenings and early mornings when pollution concentrations are at their peak.
The recent fluctuations underscore how quickly air quality can degrade due to local activities and weather patterns, demanding sustained monitoring and public awareness.
