Air Pollution in Pune Surpasses Delhi and Mumbai, Raising Health Concerns

Pune 19th Oct 2023: Delhi has long been in the limelight for its air pollution woes, but recently, Maharashtra has not been far behind. Pune, the city that boasts of better air quality, is now reporting higher levels of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) in its air compared to both Delhi and Mumbai.

Pune is currently experiencing a surge in construction activities, including the construction of metros, roads, bridges, and government as well as private infrastructure. The city is also in the midst of various festivals and events, further contributing to the deteriorating air quality. With all these factors combined, Pune is gradually inching its way onto the international list of cities with severe air pollution. Consequently, vehicular emissions have surged due to the increased number of vehicles on the roads.

Comparing the Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune reveals that Delhi has somewhat improved in its air quality with an AQI of 110. However, the AQI for Mumbai and Pune has been steadily increasing due to elevated levels of PM 2.5 particles, revealed the data from System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

Over the past few days, citizens in Pune have been experiencing cold, congestion, and respiratory issues. This is particularly concerning for children, women, and the elderly who are affected more significantly. It is, therefore, advised for citizens to take precautions. Just a day earlier, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Mumbai had touched 146. However, Pune has now surged ahead with an AQI of 178. With the onset of the winter season and a considerable reduction in rainfall, the AQI in Mumbai has consistently been reaching higher levels. Even Pune, while being a distance away, has started to experience the effects of pollution along the lines of Mumbai.