Amidst pollution, Mumbaikars can hardly breathe fresh air. However, as per the data revealed by System of Air Quality Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), pollutants in the air have reduced in the city. In 2016, the PM 2.5 annual average levels recorded in Mumbai were 70 µg/m3 (micrograms per cubic metre) but last year it dropped to 60 µg/m3.
Also Read: Mumbai Is The Fourth Most Polluted City In The World: World Health Organisation
Gufran Beig, project director of SAFAR, told Times of India,
The city is making efforts to bring down emissions. Also, there is a lot of awareness created by the government about the need to curb air pollution. It seems to be showing results as most of the monitoring locations in the city have shown a decline in the PM 2.5 concentration. However, there is a need to study why some locations have seen an increase."
As per the SAFAR records, Mumbai recorded its cleanest air on Monday since October 12, 2017, with an AQI of 34. On Tuesday, the city's AQI was 41 and is forecast to be 70 on Wednesday.
Also Read: Air Quality Worsens In Mumbai In Comparison To Delhi
SAFAR monitored 10 locations in Mumbai, of which eight locations recorded a lower PM 2.5 concentration in 2017 in comparison to 2016. Borivali and Colaba recorded an increase in the concentration levels.
These locations have moderate pollution levels but an increase is worrying. This could be because of external emissions from vehicular traffic or open burning,” said Beig.
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has started intervening to ensure that industries comply with environment norms hoping that in the next few years, taken efforts will show the impact and better results.
(Picture credit-Twitter)
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