Mumbai was covered in haze despite an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 80, which indicates 'excellent' category on Thursday, October 17. The layer of haze covered the skyline. Following this, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued a statement explaining the reason behind this unusual condition.
The civic body said that thermal inversion was the cause of the haze. This weather phenomenon happens when cooler air stays near the ground while warmer air gets above it. The cold ground air traps pollutants and moisture, creating fog-like conditions.
#Statement @MoHFW_INDIA@moefcc https://t.co/5nKjSpMZF4 pic.twitter.com/NbTncY4r9D
— माझी Mumbai, आपली BMC (@mybmc) October 17, 2024
During winter, lower temperatures lead to moisture and dew mixing with particles from industries, construction, and vehicles. According to the BMC, these conditions cause the lower air to sink further, trapping the pollutants near the ground.
Since the warmer air above prevents the particles from rising and dispersing, a foggy or hazy appearance is formed. The particles remain close to the ground, creating smog.
Thermal inversion also limits visibility by reducing the amount of sunlight that reaches the ground. It blocks the sunlight even under the clear skies. This is more common in winter when the sea breeze weakens, allowing dust and pollutants to stay in the air for longer.
With fog covering the city, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the maximum temperature recorded at Colaba was 31.3 degrees Celsius, 1.9 degrees below normal. Santacruz recorded a temperature of 32.7 degrees Celsius, one degree below the average for that day.
To tackle pollution, the BMC earlier updated its construction site regulations. Ward-level teams will monitor construction activities to ensure compliance. Air quality sensors will be installed at all construction sites. Immediate action will be taken if pollution levels exceed limits.
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