Gujarat experienced a significant environmental concern on Friday as both air quality and temperatures climbed well beyond their normal ranges, creating challenging conditions across the state.
Air Quality Deteriorates to 'Very Poor' Levels
According to the latest data from the National Air Quality Index released by the Central Pollution Control Board, the air quality in several parts of Gujarat has been categorized as "very poor." The monitoring stations recorded alarming readings, with Raikhad showing the highest AQI at 308, followed by Gyaspur at 258 and the Space Applications Centre of ISRO in Bopal registering 245.
RB Barad, Chairman of the Gujarat Pollution Control Board, provided insights into the seasonal pattern of air quality deterioration. "During the winter months from November to January, we typically observe higher AQI levels due to the inversion effect," Barad explained to The Indian Express.
Multiple Factors Contributing to Pollution
Barad emphasized that industrial units are not the only contributors to the poor air quality. "Vehicular traffic, road conditions, and construction activities also play significant roles in elevating pollution levels," he noted. The GPCB chairman pointed to the SAC ISRO Bopal area as evidence, where despite the absence of industrial units, high construction activity has resulted in concerning AQI readings.
Regarding mitigation efforts, Barad confirmed that regular monitoring of AQI levels is underway. "Multiple departments including GPCB, police, and Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation are collaborating on awareness campaigns and pollution control measures," he stated.
Temperature Anomalies Across Gujarat
The India Meteorological Department reported unusual temperature patterns across the state. Officials noted that minimum temperatures rose appreciably to markedly in parts over North Gujarat and Saurashtra. The deviation in minimum temperatures was particularly notable compared to maximum temperatures.
IMD regional director AK Das attributed the temperature spike to specific wind patterns. "Due to Easterly and Southeasterly warm winds from East and South East, we are experiencing higher temperatures across the state," Das explained. He clarified that while pollution might contribute somewhat, the primary cause is the warm winds and moisture incursion.
Das also dismissed speculation about international environmental factors, stating clearly that "there is no impact of the Ethiopian Volcano in Gujarat."
City-Specific Temperature Data
The temperature anomalies were widespread across major cities in Gujarat:
- Ahmedabad: 21.1°C (6 degrees above normal)
- Deesa: 20.3°C (6.7 degrees higher than normal)
- Vadodara: 21.2°C (5.2 degrees above normal)
- Gandhinagar: 20.8°C (5.6 degrees higher than normal)
- Surat: 22°C (3.7 degrees above normal)
Despite the current conditions, the IMD forecasts some relief. Das indicated that with Northeasterly to Easterly winds expected to prevail from Friday onward, minimum temperatures will gradually fall after two days by 2-3 degrees.
The combined effect of poor air quality and elevated temperatures presents a significant environmental challenge for Gujarat residents, prompting coordinated efforts from multiple government agencies to address both issues simultaneously.
