Indore's Air Quality Plummets Amid Festive Season

Indore, India's consistently cleanest city, is experiencing a steady rise in air pollution due to particulate matter PM10 and PM2.5. The city's Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed 100 for the first time in September, reaching a high of 163 on October 9. The AQI consistently stayed above 100 from October 8, falling in the moderate category. In comparison to last year's October average AQI of 92.5, this year's reading is significantly higher, reflecting a year-on-year increase in particulate matter concentration.

Key Takeaways:

• The highest AQI reading in October so far was 163 on October 9, indicating poor air quality conditions in the city.
• The AQI consistently stayed above 100 from October 8, falling in the moderate category, with readings of 133, 163, 140, 111, 101, and 92 between October 8 and 13.
• The main pollutants contributing to this condition are fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and coarse particulate matter (PM10), according to former Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board chief chemist Dr DK Waghela.
• Indore is among 131 non-attainment cities nationwide for failing to meet national air quality standards.
• The AQI is expected to remain moderate during the festive period, but may increase to the poor stage due to increased market activity, vehicle movement, and use of firecrackers.
• Residents are advised to take necessary precautions and avoid prolonged exposure to poor air quality.

Statistics:

• The highest AQI reading in October so far was 163 on October 9.
• The city's AQI consistently stayed above 100 from October 8.
• The average AQI in October 2022 was 92.5.
• After staying below 50 in September, the city's AQI crossed 100 for the first time.
• The AQI in the moderate category from October 8 to 13 was 133, 163, 140, 111, 101, and 92.
• Indore's average AQI on Diwali last year (October 31) was 166, indicating poor air quality conditions across the city.

Sources:

• Times of India
• Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board official data