Mumbai’s average daily Air Quality Index (AQI) rose to 102 in October, more than twice September’s average of 45.4, highlighting the city’s growing pollution concerns.
Mumbai long considered relatively protected from severe air pollution because of its coastal location and sea breezes, has experienced unusually hazy skies through much of October. The worsening conditions have highlighted the growing pollution challenges facing India’s financial capital.
According to a Bloomberg analysis of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, Mumbai’s average daily Air Quality Index (AQI) climbed to 102 through October 27, more than doubling from the September average of 45.4.
The city has also ranked as India’s most polluted city in some live air quality readings reported by Swiss air quality technology company IQAir.
The rise in pollution suggests that coastal winds, which have traditionally helped disperse pollutants, may not always be enough to protect Mumbai from deteriorating air quality. The persistent haze has renewed concerns about the city’s pollution levels and the need for stronger measures to address the sources of emissions.