Gurgaon's Air Quality Declines to 'Moderate' Category Amid Summer Shift
Air quality in Gurgaon deteriorated on Thursday, slipping into the 'moderate' category as the Air Quality Index (AQI) climbed to 101, up from 82 recorded on the previous day. This increase highlights a notable change in the city's pollution dynamics as summer sets in.
Carbon Monoxide Takes Center Stage as Primary Pollutant
On Wednesday, carbon monoxide emerged as the main pollutant, diverging from Gurgaon's typical pattern where particulate matter usually dominates. Experts explained that this shift points to local sources such as vehicle emissions and incomplete combustion processes, rather than dust or broader regional factors.
"When carbon monoxide drives AQI levels instead of particulate matter, it typically indicates the impact of traffic congestion, fuel combustion, and other near-ground sources," an expert noted. "Such pollution tends to concentrate more in densely populated and high-traffic zones, posing distinct health risks."
Varied Pollution Levels Across Monitoring Stations
Data from Gurgaon's four continuous ambient air quality monitoring (CAQM) stations revealed significant disparities in pollution across the city:
- Sector 51 and Vikas Sadan recorded higher AQI levels of 120 and 130, respectively, both falling within the 'moderate' range.
- In contrast, stations near the Aravali foothills, NISE Gwal Pahari and Teri Gram, reported better air quality with AQI levels of 70 and 59, placing them in the 'satisfactory' category.
Experts attributed the lower pollution in Aravali areas to factors like enhanced green cover, reduced traffic density, and improved air dispersion. "Central sectors and densely populated regions remain more susceptible to vehicle emissions, especially during peak traffic hours when pollutants linger near the ground," an expert added.
Analysis of Recent AQI Trends and Health Implications
An analysis of AQI trends over the past week shows a brief rise followed by stabilization. "The absence of dust-laden winds and relatively favourable dispersion conditions have helped keep air quality in check," stated an official from the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB).
According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines, sustained exposure to 'moderate' category air can cause breathing discomfort for individuals with asthma, heart disease, or lung conditions. The AQI classification is as follows:
- 0-50: 'Good'
- 51-100: 'Satisfactory'
- 101-200: 'Moderate'
- 201-300: 'Poor'
- 301-400: 'Very Poor'
- 401-500: 'Severe'
Future Outlook and Monitoring Needs
With temperatures expected to rise further in the coming days, air dispersion may improve. However, experts emphasized that local pollution sources will continue to influence Gurgaon's air quality, underscoring the necessity for regular monitoring as summer approaches. This ongoing vigilance is crucial to address the evolving pollution patterns and mitigate health risks for residents.
