Bhopal Air Quality Deteriorates After Dhanteras, AQI Reaches 197 Amid Pollution Concerns

Air Quality Update in Bhopal

The air quality in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, has raised concerns following increased market crowds and vehicle movement during Dhanteras. According to monitoring data from the TT Nagar monitoring station, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 197 at 5:00 AM on Saturday, November 7, placing it at the upper limit of the moderate category.

Authorities and monitoring reports indicate that this level is not considered normal and may cause breathing difficulties for sensitive individuals. Further increases in pollution levels are anticipated following the burning of firecrackers on Sunday, November 8, for Diwali.

Breakdown of Pollutant Sub-Indices

Data from the monitoring station detailed the sub-indices for various pollutants:

• PM 2.5: 197 (highest contributor, posing concerns due to fine particulate matter)
• PM 10: 160
• Nitrogen Dioxide: 59
• Ozone: 18
• Sulphur Dioxide: 23
• Carbon Monoxide: 70

Contributing Factors and Diwali Outlook

The deterioration was reported following heavy shopping crowds in key markets such as New Market, Chouk Bazaar, MP Nagar, and old city areas on Friday, November 6 (Dhanteras). Vehicular emissions, road dust, and construction activities were noted as potential contributors to the rising pollution levels.

While the exact AQI figures for Diwali night cannot be predicted in advance—as they depend on factors like firecracker usage volume, wind speed, wind direction, and atmospheric dispersion—experts warn that widespread firecracker use could keep pollution particles suspended in the atmosphere, especially if wind speeds remain low at night.

AQI Categories Reference

• 0–50 (Good): Clean air with minimal health impact.
• 51–100 (Satisfactory): Generally acceptable for most people.
• 101–200 (Moderate): May cause breathing discomfort for sensitive groups like asthma and respiratory patients.
• 201–300 (Poor): Can cause breathing difficulty for healthy people on prolonged exposure.
• 301–400 (Very Poor): Increases risk of respiratory illnesses on prolonged exposure.
• 401–500 (Severe): Affects healthy individuals and seriously impacts those with existing conditions.

Precautions for Sensitive Groups

Children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with asthma or heart conditions are advised to limit prolonged outdoor exposure when pollution levels rise, avoid standing near firecracker smoke, and seek medical advice if experiencing respiratory distress, chest tightness, or persistent coughing.