Gurgaon's air quality continued to languish in the 'poor' category for the second straight day on Thursday, as per data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The city's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 232, indicating unhealthy atmospheric conditions that pose risks to public health.
Monitoring Stations Show Widespread Pollution
Among the four air quality monitoring stations operational in Gurgaon, Vikas Sadan registered the highest pollution levels with an AQI of 273. This was closely followed by Sector 51 at 272 and Teri Gram at 270. Gwal Pahari recorded comparatively lower, though still concerning, pollution levels at 204.
January's Troubling Air Quality Pattern
The city spent much of January in the 'very poor' air quality range, with PM2.5 emerging as the dominant pollutant on most days. Several dates crossed the alarming 350 AQI mark, including January 13, 18, 19, and 20. Even on relatively better days, air quality largely hovered between 'poor' and 'very poor', offering residents little sustained relief from the toxic air.
Expert Analysis of Pollution Persistence
Environmental experts have attributed the persistence of fine particulate matter to multiple factors including low wind speeds, temperature inversion phenomena, and local emission sources. These sources encompass vehicular traffic, ongoing construction activity, and diesel generator use across the city.
Medical professionals warn that prolonged exposure at these pollution levels can cause breathing discomfort for most people, with vulnerable populations facing heightened risks.
Weather Conditions Aggravating Pollution
Recent foggy mornings and a lack of sunshine have further weakened atmospheric dispersion mechanisms, allowing pollutants to accumulate dangerously close to the surface. According to the air quality early warning system, calm winds, low mixing heights, and winter inversion are expected to continue trapping pollutants in the coming days.
The predicted ventilation index over Delhi NCR is projected to remain below the favourable threshold of 6,000 m²/s over the next few days, indicating persistently poor dispersion conditions. Meteorological forecasts suggest AQI is likely to deteriorate to the 'very poor' category on Friday.
Weather Forecast and Potential Relief
The weather department has forecast cloudy skies with shallow to moderate fog during morning hours and light winds over the coming days. While there is a possibility of very light rain accompanied by gusty winds between January 31 and February 1, environmental officials caution that any meaningful improvement in air quality would depend on stronger winds or sustained precipitation.
Health Advisories for Residents
Health authorities have issued specific recommendations for Gurgaon residents:
- Limit outdoor activities, especially for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions
- Avoid strenuous physical exercise outdoors
- Use N95 or equivalent masks when stepping outside
- Keep windows closed during peak pollution hours
- Use air purifiers indoors when possible
Understanding AQI Classifications
The Central Pollution Control Board classifies AQI levels as follows:
- 0-50: Good - Minimal impact on health
- 51-100: Satisfactory - Minor breathing discomfort for sensitive individuals
- 101-200: Moderate - Breathing discomfort for people with lung, heart diseases
- 201-300: Poor - Breathing discomfort for most people on prolonged exposure
- 301-400: Very Poor - Respiratory illness on prolonged exposure
- 401-500: Severe - Affects healthy people and seriously impacts those with existing diseases
Gurgaon's current AQI of 232 places it firmly in the 'poor' category, indicating that most residents may experience breathing discomfort with prolonged exposure to the outdoor air.
