Pune, a city known for its vibrant culture and thriving IT sector, is currently grappling with a pressing concern – air pollution. The city’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recently shifted from the “poor” category to “moderate,” with an AQI of 146 as of 6 p.m. on November 6. Despite this modest improvement, the air in Shivajinagar, one of Pune’s prominent areas, is far from safe for residents.
According to data from the SAFAR-IITM real-time monitoring system, Shivajinagar has reported the highest levels of air pollution, primarily attributed to PM 2.5, which poses a significant health risk. The recorded concentration of PM 2.5 in Shivajinagar stands at 283 micrograms per cubic meter, nearly four times higher than the permissible limit.
PM 2.5, known as fine (smaller) particles, is especially hazardous as it can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, causing adverse health effects.
The alarming disparity between the actual PM 2.5 levels and the permissible limit is a concerning issue. On November 6, the recorded level was 283, while the standard limit for this pollutant is set at 60. Moreover, PM 2.5 also played a pivotal role in elevating air pollution in various other areas within the city, ranging from 90 to 135.
Apart from PM 2.5, nitrogen oxide emerged as a significant contributor to air pollution. The sources of PM 2.5 in the city are diverse, with the transportation sector accounting for up to 20% of this hazardous pollutant, as per the Automotive Research Association of India’s air pollution inventory. Other sectors contributing to PM 2.5 include road dust (19%), industries (19%), agricultural waste (10%), construction activities (12%), and diesel generator sets (4%).
Area-wise Particulate Matter Levels (PM 2.5):
- Shivajinagar – 283
- Hadapsar – 132
- Lohegaon – 126
- Kothrud – 105
- Katraj – 100
- Pashan – 90
As Pune grapples with the challenge of air pollution, it becomes imperative to address the various contributing factors and adopt measures to safeguard the well-being of its residents.
