Gwalior tops as Madhya Pradesh's most dust-polluted city: MPPCB report

The Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board (MPPCB) released its 2023-2024 annual report on the state's air quality. Gwalior is the most dust-polluted city, with high particulate matter (PM-10) levels. Bhopal, Indore, and Jabalpur are "moderate" pollution cities, while Ujjain is the only metro with satisfactory air quality.

What is PM-10, and why is it dangerous?

PM-10 particles are fine dust small enough to enter the respiratory system. They pose a significant risk to human health, particularly for vulnerable groups such as asthma patients, children under five, and senior citizens. Prolonged exposure can lead to severe respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and eye irritation.

Environmental expert Subhash Pandey emphasizes the year-round risk posed by PM-10. "This report reflects the average pollution levels throughout the year. People in these cities are constantly exposed to this air, allowing PM-10 to infiltrate their blood circulation and cause serious health issues," he explains.

Pandey attributes PM-10 pollution to construction and demolition (CND) waste, which generates significant dust. Broken and unpaved roads exacerbate the issue, as vehicle tyres stir up loose particles. Open construction activities contribute to the pollution levels.

Solutions to reduce PM-10 levels

Environmentalists stress the urgent need for action to mitigate PM-10 pollution. Sprinkling water on roads is suggested to curb dust pollution. "In cities where the average Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds 100, residents should demand that their Municipal Corporation or Municipality implement regular water spraying on roads," says Pandey.

Sprinkling water at three-hour intervals can significantly reduce PM-10 levels and improve air quality. Municipalities should prioritize running sprinklers twice a day or more, especially in high-traffic and construction areas.

Pandey warns that children and the elderly are particularly at risk. "PM-10 particles are most dangerous for small children and senior citizens, whose immune systems can't handle prolonged exposure to polluted air," he says.

With air quality deteriorating, the MPPCB report serves as a wake-up call for authorities and residents. Gwalior and other cities facing high pollution must adopt proactive measures to reduce dust emissions. Residents are urged to push for stricter regulations on construction, better road maintenance, and consistent use of sprinklers.

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